Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo have already closed their doors permanently, as a result of the current federal government shutdown. The instructions went into effect on Sunday and affect each one of the Smithsonian’s 21 institutions. This includes flagship locations such as the Smithsonian’s Air and Space Museum and National History Museum in Washington, D.C.
The shutdown’s collateral damage extends to the nine research centers and museums located beyond the District of Columbia. This collection even features a number of facilities in Virginia and New York City—and they’re no longer open to the public.…” Smithsonian closes five of its facilities, social media post, March 23 closing announcement. This really helps to put into perspective the consequences nationwide from the government’s inability to find a funding agreement.
In the last government shutdown that lasted from December 2018 to January 2019, the Smithsonian had to undergo similar closures. The last shutdown was 35 days. Throughout that period, the Smithsonian’s museums and National Zoo shut down from January 2 through January 29, 2019.
Recent examples of the power of the small dollar Smithsonian institutions depend on annual federal appropriations for their operations. As a result, they don’t have the independence to stay open during federal government shutdowns. In their social media announcement, the Smithsonian stated, “We will update our operating status as soon as the situation is resolved.”
The institution previously indicated its intention to keep its museums, research centers, and the National Zoo open through at least Monday, October 6, by using prior-year funds still available. Given the current state of the world, these plans took a turn.
The Smithsonian’s closures are especially disheartening given that this is the time of year when the public frequents these cultural treasures the most. The indefinite shutdown limits all students in every community’s access to potentially life-altering educational opportunities. It’s harming the local economies that depend on the tourism attracted by these national treasures.
As the federal government continues to keep its own head below the parapet, no one knows when these appreciated institutions will be able to come back. The Smithsonian will continue to keep the public apprised of their operating status as further developments arise.
