New York, NY (Oct 16, 2020)—NEMPN objects to the content of the Executive Order on Combating Race and Sex Stereotyping that was issued by the President of the United States on September 22, 2020. NEMPN is troubled by the message that this Executive Order (EO) projects to not only museum professionals but to all those who are fighting to end systemic racism and sexism. It is one of NEMPN’s core beliefs that museums are cultural spaces for all and should strive to represent the many diverse cultures and histories that encompass our globe. We see this EO as undermining these values and pushing to reverse course on much-needed diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion (DEAI) efforts. NEMPN understands that this is difficulty and uncomfortable work but we also acknowledge this work as essential for the betterment of society. We want to reassure our network of wonderful museum colleagues around the world that NEMPN is dedicated to our DEAI work. We will continue to forge a path ahead to fight for a more equitable museum field.
About NEMPN
The National Emerging Museum Professionals Network envisions communities in which museum professionals make meaningful connections within and across backgrounds, disciplines, and institutions by providing leadership, responding to changing needs, enriching experiences, growing capabilities, and sharing resources. NEMPN is a registered 501(c)3. For more information: nationalempnetwork.org