Letter to Smithsonian Institution Secretary Lawrence M. Small

May 1, 2003

The Honorable Lawrence M. Small
Secretary, The Smithsonian Institution
1000 Jefferson Drive, SW #205
Washington, DC 20560-0019

Dear Secretary Small:

We are writing to express our total dismay at the Smithsonian Institution's recent actions with regard to the upcoming "Seasons of Life and Land" exhibit on the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, which features the photographs of Subhankar Banerjee. The exhibit has been substantially altered, and we are asking for an immediate reversal of these changes.

We are deeply concerned about the possibility that these actions are perceived as political retribution since they occurred shortly after reference to Mr. Banerjee's book, "Seasons of Life and Land" during a recent Senate debate on drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. To bow to political pressure—to censor the works of a particular individual—goes against the very purpose, mission, and principles of the Smithsonian Institution. The initial decision to exhibit these works was made on the basis of artistic, scientific, and cultural merit. Reversing that decision for political reasons is a disturbing development.

Among the changes, we understand that the exhibit had been designated for display in the rotunda of the Natural History Museum, but has now been moved to the basement. The narrative texts accompanying the images have also been drastically altered. In addition, the Office of the General Counsel has requested from Mountaineer Books, the publisher of Mr. Banerjee's book, that "any and all references to the Smithsonian Institution or a Smithsonian-sponsored traveling exhibition be omitted from all future printings or editions of the book." The General Counsel also requested that an errata sheet be printed to be included in all editions of the book already printed. We are dismayed that the Smithsonian would demand to be disassociated from photographs that are being displayed within its own walls.

These sudden and hostile actions with regard to an exhibit that has been scheduled for months and toward a publisher of a book containing images identical to those to be displayed by the Smithsonian Institution, raises concerns regarding the possible politicalization of Mr. Banerjee's work. This perception of political persecution from the Smithsonian Institution is unacceptable.

The Smithsonian Institution is a national symbol of the dissemination of knowledge and the preservation of our national history and culture. It must maintain the highest standard of objectivity, thoroughness and equity—not be censored by political agendas.

We expect the Smithsonian to adhere to these principles under your management and urge you to reverse these recent actions toward this collection of photographs and all exhibits. Please inform us immediately with regard to this issue by calling (202) 224-XXXX.

Sincerely,

Barbara Boxer
U.S. Senator

Maria Cantwell
U.S. Senator