The Smithsonian Institute announced Saturday that its museums will closed from sunday In form of lapse in government funding continues.
“Due to the government shutdown, the Smithsonian’s museums, along with our research centers and the National Zoo, are temporarily closed effective Sunday, October 12,” the organization said. Wrote on social platform“We will update our operational status as soon as the situation is resolved.”
“We have no plans to update social media other than to notify you of changes to our operating status,” the post continued. “Although our doors are closed, Smithsonian digital resources are still available http://si.edu,
National Zoo posted a similar messageUsers are being asked questions on how animals will be cared for during the shutdown.
“All animals at the zoo and the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, Virginia, will continue to be fed and cared for,” Smithsonian officials said. express reaction“The shutdown will not impact our commitment to the safety of our employees and the standard of excellence in animal care.
The majority of the Smithsonian’s budget, 62 percent is allocated From the federal government. While the shutdown began on October 1, the institution said it has enough funds to keep its facilities open until October 11.
Organization Operates 17 museums and the National Zoo in Washington, two museums in New York City and eight research centers – including one Astrophysical Observatory at Harvard University and a marine station In Fort Pierce, Florida.
with senators unable to break the deadlock In latest round The lapse in federal funding is expected to continue next week, following the vote to reopen the government. All tours of the US Capitol, White House, FBI Headquarters, Supreme Court, Library of Congress, and US Botanical Garden Has already been suspended.
The closure of the museums comes as the Smithsonian faces increasing scrutiny from the Trump administration over some of its educational exhibits.
the White House started a review After the President accused museums of being too “woke”, the institution was asked to ensure “alignment” with President Trump’s vision and concentrate too much At least on “how bad slavery was” in America. 20 performances They have been declared suspicious by the administration.
many federal agencies are also facing cut in force Since the shutdown will stretch into next week.
