Jerusalem, 14 October, 2026 (TPS-IL) — A congressionally established commission has begun examining whether Philadelphia’s Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History should join the Smithsonian Institution’s network of museums, potentially bringing Jewish American history to millions more people.
The eight-member commission held its first meeting Tuesday, with all commissioners taking their oaths of office. Philip Darivoff was named chairman, and author Dara Horn vice chairwoman.
The Weitzman, located on Philadelphia’s Independence Mall near Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, is the nation’s only museum dedicated to telling the story of Jews in America. Its inclusion in the Smithsonian could expand access through exhibitions, educational programs, and digital resources.
Over the next two years, the commission will examine the museum’s collections, finances, governance and long-term sustainability, as well as its potential role in combating antisemitism. It will submit recommendations to Congress and the president.