While none of his administration has yet to publicly condemn Sherald’s paintings or the representation of black trans women, the organizers of her scheduled exhibition, scheduled for September 19, had reason to fear the immediate impact on fundraising if the work was exhibited. In March, just two months after his second term, Trump signed Presidential Order It is entitled “Truth and Restoring Sanity to American History.” It aims to reduce financial support for museums and projects with the phrase “sharing American values, dividing Americans based on race, or promoting ideologies that contradict federal law and policies.” Statement The Smithsonian is “under the influence of divisive, racially ideologies,” and Trump has directed US vice-president JD Vance to enforce his orders. It was only a matter of time before Black and transgender caught Vance’s eye and Sherald recast the female Liberty.
Source: BBC Culture – www.bbc.com
