A Statement from the NYCMER Board

Dear NYCMER Community, 

On behalf of the NYCMER Board, we want to acknowledge that many of us are grappling with the deep and lasting consequences of the recent actions imposed by the Trump Administration.

On March 14th, President Trump issued an executive order directing further cuts to the Institute of Museum and Library Services, endangering funding for our pilot programs, workforce trainings, and basic services like internet and computer access in our libraries. On top of that, millions of dollars in grants from the National Endowment for the Humanities are being cancelled, thrusting our humanities institutions—those dedicated to preserving community history and identity—into an anxious and uncertain future.

These actions will have far-reaching consequences as museums and libraries are complexly intertwined with their communities and local economies. For us in the informal education world, they can be everything from our profession and income to our passion and purpose. For museum educators, library staff, and all those personally and professionally affected by these actions, we want you to know we see you and are there with you. Your fears and frustrations are valid. 

NYCMER is dedicated to engaging in advocacy by and for museum workers. If you are seeking connection and support, we encourage you to explore NYCMER Peer Groups as a space to find like-minded colleagues. 

Many people are taking actions to support the field. Below are two resources that you and your peers can use to take action. 

• Take Action to Save the National Endowment for the Humanities
• Ask Your Museum’s Supporters to Save IMLS

Lastly, our upcoming conference, Welcome: Museums in Community, on May 19 will highlight the power of community building. We hope you will join us at the conference and at upcoming NYCMER events as we continue to strengthen our network across the metropolitan region. Together, we are far from powerless!

We appreciate your dedication to NYCMER  and will continue to advocate for our vital work.

Thank you,

NYCMER Board