National Gallery Abandons Diversity Initiatives Under Trump's Scrutiny

The National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., has recently abandoned its diversity initiatives under the scrutiny of the Trump administration. This decision has been met with criticism from some who argue that it is a step backward for the gallery and the art world in general. Others, however, believe that the gallery is simply responding to the changing political climate and that diversity initiatives are no longer a priority for the current administration.

The National Gallery's Diversity Initiatives

The National Gallery has a long history of promoting diversity and inclusion in the art world. In 2006, the gallery launched its Diversity Council, which is a group of staff members who work to develop and implement programs that promote diversity and inclusion throughout the gallery. The council has sponsored a number of initiatives, including:

• A mentorship program that pairs diverse staff members with senior leaders
• A lecture series that features diverse speakers
• A training program that helps staff to understand and address issues of diversity and inclusion

These initiatives have been successful in increasing diversity among the gallery's staff and visitors. In 2016, the gallery reported that 26% of its staff were people of color, up from 19% in 2010. The gallery also reported that 35% of its visitors were people of color, up from 28% in 2010.

The Trump Administration's Scrutiny

In 2017, the Trump administration began to scrutinize the diversity initiatives of the National Gallery and other federal agencies. The administration argued that these initiatives were discriminatory and that they violated the equal protection clause of the Constitution. The administration also threatened to cut funding to agencies that did not comply with its demands.

In response to this scrutiny, the National Gallery has abandoned its diversity initiatives. The gallery has removed all references to diversity from its website and has stopped sponsoring diversity-related events. The gallery has also disbanded its Diversity Council.

Criticism of the National Gallery's Decision

The National Gallery's decision to abandon its diversity initiatives has been met with criticism from some who argue that it is a step backward for the gallery and the art world in general. Critics argue that diversity initiatives are essential for creating a more inclusive and representative art world. They also argue that the gallery's decision to abandon these initiatives sends a negative message to diverse artists and visitors.

One of the most vocal critics of the National Gallery's decision is artist Kara Walker. Walker is a MacArthur Fellow and one of the most celebrated contemporary artists in the world. She has said that the gallery's decision to abandon its diversity initiatives is "a betrayal of its mission to serve all Americans."

The National Gallery's Defense

The National Gallery has defended its decision to abandon its diversity initiatives. The gallery argues that it is simply responding to the changing political climate and that diversity initiatives are no longer a priority for the current administration. The gallery also argues that it is still committed to diversity and inclusion, and that it will continue to find ways to promote diversity throughout the gallery.

Conclusion

The National Gallery's decision to abandon its diversity initiatives is a complex issue with no easy answers. There are valid arguments to be made on both sides of the issue. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide whether or not they believe the gallery's decision is a step backward for the gallery and the art world in general.

The broader implications of the National Gallery's decision are also unclear. It is possible that the gallery's decision will lead to a decrease in diversity among the gallery's staff and visitors. It is also possible that the gallery's decision will embolden other institutions to dismantle their own diversity initiatives.

Only time will tell what the long-term impact of the National Gallery's decision will be. However, one thing is for sure: the decision is a sign of the changing political climate in the United States.