In what appears to be a growing trend of federal oversight on cultural institutions, President Trump's administration is now reportedly setting its sights on the September 11 Memorial and Museum in Lower Manhattan. The New York Times has detailed attempts by the Trump administration to explore transferring control of the nonprofit memorial from New York state to federal hands, a move that has drawn criticism from local voices and leaders, including New York Governor Kathy Hochul.
Hochul, in expressing her disapproval, pointed to the Memorial's deep significance for New Yorkers, "The 9/11 Memorial belongs to New Yorkers — the families, survivors, and first responders who have carried this legacy for more than two decades and ensured we never forget," she told CBS News New York, her statement further criticized the president for attempting a takeover after having cut funds for programs aiding 9/11 survivors and first responders, and this recent development comes as counterintuitive to that backdrop. Meanwhile, Beth Hillman, President and CEO of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, highlighted the fiscal inconsistency of the federal government assuming control, especially when she stated to CBS News New York that, "At a time when the federal government is working to cut costs, assuming the full operating expenses for the site makes no sense."
Backing the stance of the governor and museum officials are the heartfelt views of individuals like Anthoula Katsimatides, a trustee of the museum whose brother perished in the 9/11 attacks, "It was super important to make sure that it was a hopeful and inspiring place," she said to CBS News New York, underlining the efficiency and effectiveness with which the memorial has honored victims like her brother. Furthermore, Brett Eagleson, whose father was also killed in the attacks, insisted the decision should remain with the 9/11 community, including families of the victims.
Contrasting with his administration's ambitions for the 9/11 Memorial, President Trump reportedly plans to skip next week's ceremony at Ground Zero instead opting to attend a Pentagon event and a Yankees game as stated by ABC7NY; the same source notes that the museum itself, which has raised $750 million in private funds, sees no need for federal management.
