New federal regulations require museums to obtain consent from original native communities before displaying certain objects, leading to blocked exhibits. This policy, which has affected major institutions like the Field Museum and American Museum of Natural History, aims to address historical grievances but inadvertently leads to a temporary erasure of history. Critics argue this is a form of censorship that complicates the relationship between cultural preservation and native rights. The rules have prompted many museums to reassess their longstanding exhibits, raising concerns over ownership and representation of tribal heritage.
This cover-up at one of Chicago's most-visited institutions is brought to you by federal regulations that went into effect in mid-January.
Across the country, museums... are scrambling to comply with the new rules by, in some instances, removing long-standing exhibits.
An important part of the nation's history is being erased, at least temporarily, from the very places where many Americans go to experience it.
Today's tribes may have debatable ownership claims that complicate the very essence of cultural preservation versus censorship.
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