Patricia Zell

The Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian is a cultural and educational organization dedicated to native peoples of the Western Hemisphere. The company is based in Washington, DC. It operates three main facilities: the primary museum on the National Mall in Washington, DC; the George Gustav Heye Center; and the Cultural Resources Center. The museum houses a large collection of native artifacts, photographs, archives, and media, emphasizing native voices and perspectives in its exhibitions, research, and public programs. Its mission is to promote understanding of native peoples, cultures, histories, and contemporary issues through diverse exhibitions, educational programs, research, and collaboration with native communities. The museum prioritizes ethical stewardship, repatriation, and shared stewardship policies, and features the National Native American Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC. It offers free daily public access (except December 25), online resources, and supports community engagement through memberships, donations, volunteering, internships, and events. The Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian is a subsidiary of the Smithsonian Institution and ultimately controlled by the Government of the United States of America.