Trump’s Executive Orders: Aim To Close Institute of Museum and Library Services also VOA

President Trump’s recent executive order has raised concerns among journalists, librarians, and cultural institutions, raising crucial questions about the impact on free speech, cultural heritage, and community development.

The order targets several agencies, including the Voice of America (VOA) and the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), which funds libraries across the country.

The VOA, a government-funded international broadcasting service, has been a cornerstone of American diplomacy for over 75 years, providing accurate and unbiased news coverage to millions of people around the world. Critics argue that closing down the VOA would compromise America’s global influence and undermine the very fabric of free speech.

The IMLS is responsible for distributing funds to libraries across the country, supporting literacy programs, and preserving cultural heritage. With its budget slashed by 25% in recent years, the agency has already struggled to maintain its services. Closing it down would deprive communities of vital resources and threaten the survival of America’s cultural institutions.

A 2016 study by the Pew Research Center found that 77% of Americans (age 16 and older) think libraries provide them with the resources they need, and 65% “say that if their local public libraries were closed it would have a major impact on their communities as a whole.” Public libraries play a critical role in promoting social cohesion, reducing inequality, and fostering economic growth.

While some argue that the VOA and IMLS are inefficient and wasteful, others see these agencies as vital components of America’s cultural and intellectual landscape. “

President Trump’s executive order to close down the VOA and IMLS raises serious concerns about the impact on free speech, cultural heritage, and community development. As we enter this uncertain landscape, it is essential that we prioritize the preservation of these institutions and promote a culture of transparency, accountability, and civic engagement.