Guggenheim approves plan for diversity
After numerous controversies about the fairness and correctness of the behaviour of the Guggenheim staff in New York towards black collaborators and employees, the Museum approved a plan to address the allegations of racism rooted within its walls. The Guggenheim in this sense is one of the first major cultural organizations to provide the details of an extended effort on diversity, providing paid internships for students from under-represented backgrounds, partnerships with historically black colleges and universities to promote job opportunities, and the creation of a professional network for black people working in art organizations. Initiatives on diversity will also be overseen with the establishment of a committee to examine the institution’s exhibitions and acquisitions.The Guggenheim’s reckoning comes at a time of financial difficulties because of the coronavirus pandemic. The museum currently projects it will have a $15 million deficit this year, and has relied on contributions from trustees and reallocated money from its current budget to fund its diversity initiatives. Administrators said the museum will not reopen until at least October.
