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 Visit from a State Department official

Jonathan Evans's profile image
Jonathan Evans posted 07-03-2026 11:13 PM

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

Gretchen Jennings's profile image
Gretchen Jennings posted 07-04-2026 10:30 AM
Hi, Jonathan, this does seem unusual. In my view the only response should be welcoming him politely. If he raises questions about your exhibit or programming content I think you should honestly describe your process. 
The Jan 12 post on our Substack “MuseumsActTogether of Jan 12. 2026 may be helpful.  It called “The problem with ‘neutral’ history” by Max von Balgooy. 
Hope this helps. Best Gretchen Jennings  
Nichole Westin's profile image
Nichole Westin posted 07-06-2026 09:29 AM

Hi Jonathan - 

Can you send me an email with more information on this? Ie - who the person is, what they asked etc?  Happy to look into further.

Nichole Westin
Senior Director of Government and Field Relations
T: 202.218.7699
nwestin@aam-us.org
Catherine Foster's profile image
Catherine Foster posted 07-06-2026 12:03 PM

Hi Jonathan,

I worked in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs for 13 years under several administrations. On the whole, ECA is very supportive of museums and their work. I agree with Gretchen that you should welcome him politely and give him a tour. His schedule is likely tight, so it doesn't need to be lengthy or very in-depth.

Best,

Catherine Foster

Argus Cultural Property Consultants

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