Gallego Introduces Bill to Build Latino Museum on the National Mall

WASHINGTON — Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ)joined a bipartisan group of senators to introduce theSmithsonian National Museum of the American Latino Actto build a new Smithsonian museum on the National Mall that recognizes the accomplishments of Latinos. This follows the passage of bipartisan legislation that establishes a Latino history museum, which was signed into law in December 2020.
“Latinos have always been and always will be central to the American story. That story, which I know intimately, is one of hard work, service, culture, and sacrifice, and it deserves a place on the National Mall,”said Senator Gallego.“This bill is about more than building a museum. It’s about claiming our rightful place in American history. I’m proud to help make that happen.”
The legislation grants a necessary waiver from the Commemorative Works Act to bypass red tape and move forward with construction at the recommended Tidal Basin site, without requiring new taxpayer funding.
Senator Gallego joinedSenators Alex Padilla (D-CA), Ted Cruz (R-TX) Catherine Cortez-Masto (D-NV), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM)andAmy Klobuchar (D-MN)in introducing the legislation. It is endorsed by multiple organizations including FRIENDS of the National Museum of the American Latino, the American Latino Veterans Association, the LatinoCoalition, the Hispanic 100, and the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
A one-pager on the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino is availableHERE.
Full text of the bill is availableHERE.
4/17/25