The ongoing government shutdown has led to a series of closures, affecting not only federal employees but also beloved institutions like the Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo. As the shutdown continues, the Smithsonian has announced the closure of all its sites, including 21 museums, research centers, and the National Zoo, starting on October 12th. This decision comes as a result of the federal government's funding dispute, which has left the Smithsonian with no choice but to close its doors.
The Smithsonian's social media posts have been updated to inform the public about the changes in operating status, with a promise to provide further updates once the situation is resolved. While the animals at the zoo will still be cared for, the beloved animal cams will be turned off due to being considered nonessential. The zoo's animals will continue to be fed and cared for, ensuring their well-being during the closure.
The Smithsonian's reliance on federal funding is significant, as it receives approximately 62% of its funding from the government, which supports free admission to its D.C. museums and the National Zoo. Initially, the Smithsonian was able to keep its facilities open for 11 days using prior-year funds, but those reserves have now been depleted. This closure is just one of many affected by the government shutdown, as national parks across the country have also been forced to close due to staff being deemed nonessential and sent home until a funding agreement is reached.
The impact of the shutdown extends beyond the Smithsonian, with federal employees across various agencies, including the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Education, receiving reduction in force notices, indicating potential layoffs. The shutdown has caused widespread disruption, affecting both federal operations and beloved cultural institutions, leaving many concerned about the future.
