Full Breakdown
Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Latino Secures Permanent Home on the National Mall
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Decision: Permanent Home in the Arts and Industries Building
In August, the Smithsonian’s Board of Regents voted to locate the National Museum of the American Latino in the Arts and Industries Building, a 145-year-old landmark at the heart of the National Mall. Because the Smithsonian already owns the structure, the move can proceed without new congressional approval, avoiding a potential political showdown. President Trump has sharply criticized the Smithsonian and floated proposals to cut federal support for the museum, making the ownership-based site selection especially pragmatic.
Background & Context
The museum’s creation has been a three-decade effort driven by bipartisan advocacy for Latino representation. Legislation enacted in December 2020 formally established the museum, citing the need to advance understanding of Latino culture and its impact on U.S. history. Officials note that a 30-year span is relatively swift for a Smithsonian museum.
Key Figure
Jorge Zamanillo – founding director of the National Museum of the American Latino – has led the project for roughly 4½ years. He emphasizes the museum’s role in preserving diverse Latino stories and shaping a unified cultural narrative.
Timeline
- August (year unspecified) – Board of Regents approves the Arts and Industries Building as the museum’s permanent home.
- December 2020 – Congressional legislation formally creates the museum.
- 2023-2024 – Nationwide “Making History Tour” engages Latino communities across more than 26 states and 50 cities.
- Next decade – Leadership aims to open the permanent facility within a timeframe comparable to the 12-year development period of the most recent Smithsonian museum.
Data & Statistics
- The Arts and Industries Building could accommodate an expansion that potentially doubles its current square footage.
- Outreach has visited over 26 states and more than 50 cities and rural communities to gather input on desired exhibits.
- The museum already operates the Molina Family Latino Gallery, featuring an exhibit on salsa music that traces Afro-Cuban roots, migration patterns, and cultural resistance.
Official Statements & Responses
Jorge Zamanillo describes the Mall location as “symbolic,” noting that the building’s central position allows the museum to stand alongside the nation’s first Smithsonian museum, opened in 1881. He stresses that curatorial decisions will be grounded in scholarship and factual representation, irrespective of political pressures. In response to President Trump’s criticism, Zamanillo affirms the museum’s commitment to a comprehensive, research-based narrative of Latino contributions. Officials assert that ownership of the building mitigates the risk of legislative blockage.
Community Outreach (On-the-Ground Reports)
The “Making History Tour” serves as a mobile engagement platform, inviting Latino individuals to share personal stories and suggest objects for collection. Zamanillo emphasizes that the museum does not inquire about religion or political affiliation; instead, it focuses on culturally resonant narratives. Upcoming community days and town-hall meetings will further involve the public in shaping the permanent exhibit.
Why It Matters
The museum addresses a longstanding gap in national storytelling by highlighting the centuries-long influence of Latino peoples on American history, culture, and society. By situating the museum on the National Mall, the institution signals that Latino heritage is integral to the nation’s collective memory, offering educational opportunities for visitors of all backgrounds.
What’s Next
Museum officials plan a series of community days and town-hall meetings to collect artifacts and stories for the permanent collection. Continued outreach will target additional cities in the coming year, including Los Angeles, New York, and smaller towns. Leadership remains focused on meeting development milestones that will enable the museum to open its doors within the next decade.