The Smithsonian chose its own building for the new Latino museum. This decision bypasses Congress entirely. Critics argue this move hides the project from scrutiny.
They say it allows the institution to push a specific agenda. The museum will open in the Arts and Industries Building. This structure sits on the National Mall.
The Smithsonian already controls this property. It does not need new land from lawmakers. Mike Gonzalez calls this a ruse to avoid debate.
He is a former State Department official. He has criticized the museum for years. Gonzalez says the location choice matters greatly.
It removes the chance for congressional oversight. He argues the museum should not exist at all. He wants the leadership fired immediately.
His wish saw partial fulfillment recently. Secretary Lonnie Bunch III announced his retirement. Bunch led the institution for four decades.
Gonzalez examined the museum’s first exhibition. He found what he calls a far-left worldview. The exhibit is titled ¡Presente! and debuted in 2022.
Gonzalez shared his findings in a Heritage Foundation report. He testified before Congress in July as well. The Smithsonian declined to comment on his claims.
Gonzalez points to specific panels in the show. One panel uses the phrase the border crossed us. He calls this historically inaccurate and misleading.
He says it ignores the history of citizenship. Another panel features Jose Julio Sarria. Sarria was a drag performer and politician.
Gonzalez says this promotes grievance rather than history. The report also highlights Orlando Letelier. Letelier served under Marxist President Salvador Allende.
He died in a car bombing in Washington. Gonzalez argues Letelier has no place in an American story. He says curators are betraying their mission.
Gonzalez notes his own Cuban heritage proudly. His father was imprisoned by Batista’s regime. He believes the museum ignores Castro’s oppression.
It omits the damage of socialism in Havana. Rep Carlos Gimenez agrees with these concerns. He is a Republican and a Smithsonian Regent.
Gimenez fled Cuban socialism as a child. He believes the museum must be fair. It should present both sides of history.
The current direction fails this test. The Smithsonian uses existing property to move forward. This avoids the need for new approvals.
Lawmakers cannot block a project on their own land. The debate over history continues to grow. Gonzalez says these narratives will not fly.
He sees a pattern of ideological bias. The report details these exhibits clearly. Readers can examine the evidence themselves.
The money trail shows federal funds at work. Taxpayer dollars support these specific displays. The decision removes accountability from the process.
Critics say this is a dangerous precedent. The museum opens without a final vote. The story of American Latinos is complex.
This exhibit tells only one side. The building stands ready for its new purpose. Congress was left out of the final step.