Republican lawmakers are demanding answers from the Smithsonian after kicking out pro-life students from the National Air and Space Museum. The lawmakers are requiring that an internal investigation has takes place and disciplinary action handed out accordingly. The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum kicked out a dozen Catholic high school students and their chaperons for wearing beanies inscribed with pro-life messages on the day of the March For Life. Representatives Chip Roy and Josh Brecheen, R-Oklahoma have penned a letter along with over two dozen Republicans which states:
“Does the Smithsonian have any policy prohibiting pro-life sentiments from being expressed in its buildings or any policy deeming it a ‘neutral zone,” the letter reads. “What efforts have you taken to ensure that the First Amendment rights of all Americans are respected at the Air and Space Museum and an incident like this never occurs again under your leadership?”
“On January 20, 2023, thousands of Americans from across the country traveled to Washington, D.C. to participate in the March for Life. For many participants the occasion was inviting, warm, and educational,” The letter reads. “Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for a group of pro-life Americans from South Carolina. Following the march, students were allegedly harassed by Smithsonian Institute employees at the Air and Space Museum for their pro-life and human rights affirming apparel and were expelled from the building.”
It is reported that during the incident at the museum, “One of the officers who asked the students to remove their headgear stated that it was on the grounds of the pro-life hats ‘not promoting equality.'” Lawsuits are expected to be filed on behalf of the students. The Smithsonian is a federal entity that receives more than $1 billion in federal funds each year.
I don’t recall the Smithsonian being so rabidly political. This is a shameful departure from their core mission and part of that mission is to honor, preserve and display American values, not to kowtow to the culture of DEATH.
Clearly the Smithsonian prefers compelled speech (you need to “promote equality”) to free speech. This is not, alas, a preference that they are entitled to enforce
I’ve seen numerous articles about this incident and absolutely nothing about the ‘guard’ I wonder why.