I am on the board of a small craft museum in a major city. Our director just received a letter from the staff of a senior US State Department (Deputy Assistant Secretary....Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs) career official, requesting a visit while he is in town. It was a surprising request, and given the aggressive nature of the current administration's attacks on museum content and the socially progressive nature of a good part of institutional and museum culture, we did not know how to evaluate any risk involved in the visit. The individual seems to have a strong record of career successes in many of the world's challenging regions, and is currently involved in Middle East affairs. We are also aware that the State Department sponsors art exhibitions and programs internationally, and the official seems to have chosen our museum because it is known for being "innovative."
Do any of you have advice or experience with responding to and hosting such a meeting?
Thank you