Statement in Support of Dr. Anthea Hartig, Director of the Smithsonian National Museum of American History

The Berkshire Conference of Women Historians stands in solidarity with Dr. Anthea M. Hartig, Director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History and a member of the Berks, in the face of recent attacks on her leadership and professional record.

Dr. Hartig is a distinguished historian, visionary leader, and collaborative community partner whose career reflects the highest standards of historical scholarship and public engagement. Under her leadership, the National Museum of American History has grappled with the nuance and complexity of historical narratives in a truly inclusive and accessible manner. Her work reflects a strong commitment to feminist historical practices, particularly the disruption of archival silences and historical erasures.

Efforts to discredit historians for examining the complexity of the American past threaten the independence of our cultural institutions and the public’s right to engage with rigorous, evidence-based history. Such attacks also target the foundational work of feminist historians and others who have challenged exclusionary historical narratives.

We stand with Dr. Hartig and with all historians, museum professionals, archivists, public historians, librarians, independent scholars, and educators working to preserve, protect, and expand the multiplicity of histories and genealogies that shape our understanding of the past. The Berks remains steadfast in its commitment to inclusive feminist historical scholarship and the collaborative networks that make this work possible.