In recent years, the Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute in Washington, D.C. has emphasized diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as well as climate change issues. Hosting around 2 million visitors annually, the zoo conducts a global conservation research program in over 40 countries. According to their website, topics like gender equity, civil liberties, and justice are viewed as essential to peace and prosperity while directly impacting resource use and climate change.

Research by Autumn-Lynn Harrison and Mary Hagedorn highlighted that addressing inequities in health and education globally can bolster climate action—an important focus for the institution.

One direct way we can bolster climate action is by addressing inequities in health and education across the globe – Smithsonian National Zoo Website

The National Zoo’s website features nearly 400 articles related to climate change, covering diverse topics including impacts on coral nurseries, salamanders, wildfires, and various wildlife aspects.

Efforts by the Trump administration sought to remove DEI practices within the federal government, focusing on reductions within the Smithsonian, which still prioritized diversity and inclusion, according to the Smithsonian Strategic Plan. A 2023 diversity report detailed various DEI programs, such as diversity internships, LGBTQ family events, and initiatives promoting inclusive language.

Gabriella Hoffman from the Independent Women’s Forum argued that conservation efforts for science should remain the priority without elements of DEI and environmental justice causing confusion.

Conservation has, sadly, been infiltrated by elements of DEI, ESG, and climate alarmism… – Gabriella Hoffman

Efforts to increase minority representation in zoo careers led to the formation of the Association of Minority Zoo and Aquarium Professionals by Smithsonian staff, encouraging networking, mentorship, and professional development opportunities.

Inclusive events like International Family Equality Day at the zoo have been significant, featuring animal encounters, music, and advocacy organizations like Rainbow Families and Brave Trails. Since its beginning in 2018, the platform has matured, fostering community partnership and celebrations designated by the attendees.

In 2025, the Smithsonian announced the closure of its Office of Diversity alongside Trump administration efforts but committed to maintaining visitor accessibility. Nonetheless, the DEI language continued in the workplace, evident from profiles of individuals like Elliott Ferguson, whose role includes advancing tourism with a focus on DEI.

Ricardo Stanoss, director at the zoo, outlined endeavors including diversity-focused internships and a master’s degree involving environmental justice. The Great Plains Science Program underscores values like inclusion, seeking pathways for underrepresented groups.

Partnerships extend to organizations like the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Their standards include written plans for inclusive cultures—an integral part of their operations.

Brandie Smith, joining the Smithsonian in 2008, has implemented policies focusing on gender-responsive participation at the International Union for Conservation of Nature, a member institution guiding gender policy.

Smithsonian’s National Zoo also collaborates with the Zoological Society of London for conservation work. While a spokesperson clarified the zoo’s mission in wildlife conservation, there was no direct response to inquiries regarding DEI implementations.

The Smithsonian’s National Zoo … connects millions of people with wildlife while advancing a global mission to save species… – Zoo Spokesperson

Fox News has reported that activists have opposed zoo policies. Gabriella Hoffman insists adopting extremist views can harm conservation deliverables, advocating for emphasizing species preservation rather than political agendas.

Andrew Mark Miller covers Fox News political narratives, and reader contributions are encouraged via his contact details.