WASHINGTON, DC — SEVERAL KEY NEW YORK CONGRESSMEMBERS FROM BOTH SIDES OF THE AISLE are supporting Rep. Nicole Malliotakis’ bipartisan bill, the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino Act (H.R.1330).
The legislation, which currently has 130 cosponsors, pertains to the construction of the long-awaited National Museum of the American Latino. It would “permit the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino to be located within the Reserve of the National Mall.” It would also require that “the Board of Trustees shall ensure that the exhibits and programs of the Museum accurately and comprehensively represent the varied cultures, histories, events, and values of Hispanic or Latino communities.”
The concept for the museum dates back to 2011; but a building is still in the planning stages. However, the organization’s staff “is creating exhibitions, public programs, educational materials, and learning opportunities while managing a temporary gallery,” according to the museum’s website.
Rep. Malliotakis, R-11, who represents much of southwestern Brooklyn and Staten Island, is the daughter of immigrants: her mother is a Cuban exile of the Castro dictatorship and her father is from Greece.
Co-sponsors include Reps. Nydia Velazquez, D-07, of northern Brooklyn; and Dan Goldman, D-10, of western Brooklyn. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Democrat of Queens; Tom Suozzi, Democrat of Long Island; and Nick LaLota, Republican, whose 1st District is largely Hispanic.
