On Wednesday, museum visitors found a noose inside the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
According to David J. Skorton, secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, the “deeply disturbing” noose was located in the Segregation Gallery on the second floor of the history galleries. Following the discovery of the noose, authorities closed a portion of the galleries for three hours, allowing police and the Smithsonian Office of Protection Services to investigate.
“The Smithsonian family stands together in condemning this act of hatred and intolerance, especially repugnant in a museum that affirms and celebrates the American values of inclusion and diversity,” said Skorton in an email statement.
Lonnie Bunch, NMAAHC Founding Director, tweeted on Wednesday evening saying, “The noose has long represented a deplorable act of cowardice and depravity” and that the “incident is a painful reminder of the challenges that African Americans continue to face.”
“Our museum is a place of learning and solace, a place to remember, to reflect and to engage in important discussions that help change America,” continued Bunch. “This was a horrible act, but it is a stark reminder of why our work is so important.”
U.S. Park Police are currently investigating the incident. It is currently unknown if the perpetrator was caught on the museum’s surveillance cameras.
“We live in a complicated world. There are people, who for whatever reason, can’t seem to find a way to live with their fellow human beings, ” said NMAAHC Deputy Director Kinshasha Holman.
This is the second time in a week a noose has been found at a Smithsonian museum. According to U.S. Park Police, a Smithsonian police officer found a noose in the dense canopy of a tree on Friday outside the Hirshorn Museum, which showcases contemporary art and culture. It is not known how long the noose was hanging there, said officials.
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser responded to Friday’s incident, tweeting: “It is an unfortunate irony that a sign of intimidation/ignorance would be placed on our National Mall where Americans of all walks of life come to learn more about who we are, celebrate our diversity and leave inspired to improve their lives, communities and country.”
“The District Government in particular D.C. Police Department will assist the Smithsonian in any way possible & we ask the public to do the same,” Bowser continued.
