The Smithsonian National Zoo, located in Washington, D.C., attracts around 2 million visitors each year. It also runs a global conservation research program that spans over 40 countries. Recent years have seen the zoo prioritizing topics like diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), as well as climate change.
According to a 2021 article by seabird ecologist Autumn-Lynn Harrison and coral biologist Mary Hagedorn, addressing global inequities in health and education plays a role in climate action. The zoo’s website hosts numerous articles discussing the impact of climate change on various ecosystems and species.
The Trump administration sought to remove political messaging within the Smithsonian and federally, with a focus on eliminating DEI practices. However, the Smithsonian has emphasized diversity and inclusion within its strategic plan and operations. Its 2023 Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives Report highlights efforts within the National Zoo, such as diversity-focused internships and inclusive language promotion.
“Americans visit zoos to learn about conservation, not to experience political lectures,” said Gabriella Hoffman from the Independent Women’s Forum.
The National Zoo helped initiate the Association of Minority Zoo and Aquarium Professionals to enhance representation in zoo careers. This initiative aligns with curator Craig Saffoe’s goal of increasing diversity within his field.
Since 2018, the zoo has hosted International Family Equality Day, involving LGBTQ community outreach and representing a significant aspect of its programming. In 2024, partnerships expanded to include organizations like SMYAL and the GenOUT Youth Chorus.
Jason Hayes from the Heritage Foundation raised concerns about ideology overshadowing conservation efforts. Despite the Smithsonian announcing the removal of its Office of Diversity in 2025, the zoo maintains language supporting DEI initiatives in its operations.
The zoo collaborates with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), which mandates inclusive organizational culture plans as part of its accreditation. The Smithsonian is also a member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature, advocating gender-responsive conservation policies.
Despite requests for comment on DEI practices, the Smithsonian National Zoo emphasized its role in connecting people with wildlife and promoting conservation. Critics like Hoffman argue against adopting ‘woke’ policies, suggesting they threaten conservation goals rather than support them.