Wed Jan 29 18:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Smithsonian Shuts Down Diversity Office, Freezes Federal Hiring Amidst Backlash
**Washington, D.C.** – The Smithsonian Institution, a globally renowned network of museums and research centers, has announced the closure of its Office of Diversity and a freeze on all federal hiring. While the Smithsonian is not a federal agency, its significant reliance on federal funding (two-thirds of its nearly 6,500 employees are federal workers) appears to be a driving factor in the decision.
The move follows President Trump’s executive order labeling diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives as illegal and immoral. A Smithsonian spokesperson confirmed the closure in an email to NPR, stating that the institution remains committed to a discrimination-free workplace but that the Office of Diversity is being eliminated while maintaining visitor accessibility programs. Federal employees will be required to return to in-person work in April.
This decision mirrors similar actions by other institutions receiving federal funding. Last week, the National Gallery of Art also eliminated its office dedicated to diversity and inclusion. The Smithsonian’s annual budget is in the billions and its museums draw nearly 17 million visitors annually. The institution has maintained free admission since its founding in 1846, a policy that has been repeatedly debated but ultimately retained. The impact of this restructuring on the Smithsonian’s workforce and its commitment to diversity and inclusion remains to be seen.
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