The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History is one step closer to becoming a part of the Smithsonian Institution, writes Emma Dooling for the Philadelphia Business Journal.
Earlier this month, President Joe Biden signed legislation creating a commission to study the possible integration of the Weitzman into the world’s largest collection of museums and research facilities.
Once the eight-person commission is formed, it will have two years to develop an integration plan and make a recommendation to Congress, who will then vote on the matter.
Another part of the commission’s work will be to study the financial model for the Weitzman as a Smithsonian museum. This includes whether it would receive any dedicated federal funding. As a private, nonprofit institution, it is currently funded primarily through donations.
“This Smithsonian Museum for American Jewish history, heritage, and culture would counter antisemitism at a crucial time and celebrate the four centuries of Jewish life in America,” Philip M. Darivoff, chair emeritus of the Weitzman, said in a press release.
Should it become part of the Smithsonian, the Weitzman would remain at its home in Old City. It would also be the first Smithsonian museum in Philadelphia, as well as the first dedicated to American Jewish history.
Read more about the Weitzman’s potential inclusion into the Smithsonian at the Philadelphia Business Journal.
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