The Australian Museums and Galleries Association (AMaGA), as Australia’s peak body representing workers in the galleries, libraries, archives and museums (GLAM) sector, expresses our strongest support and solidarity for our colleagues in the United States in response to recent actions by the US Government to politically interfere with the nation's memory work, undermining the sector's dedication, professionalism and scholarship.
We strongly denounce the targeting of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) for dissolution and the Smithsonian Institution for censorship.
The recent Executive Order to dismantle the IMLS would eliminate a vital source of funding for libraries and museums across the US, jeopardising access to literacy and educational programs, community information and even internet services. This targeted action will harm people in rural, remote and underserved communities most.
AMaGA strongly opposes all attempts to reverse or restrict access to historically accurate information and educational resources. The administration's recent Executive Orders pertaining to libraries and museums, in addition to its punitive actions against researchers, pose significant threats to free speech, academic freedom and democratic processes.
We stand in solidarity with our colleagues at the IMLS, the Smithsonian Institution, peak bodies, and others across the American cultural sector. We urge our membership and the broader international community to remain vigilant and to continue documenting and drawing attention to this undermining of vital memory institutions and community resources.
AMaGA National Council
2 April 2025