Resist Quietly…But Persistently

With so many colleagues removed from their posts, I often wonder: What history will be left? Are our collections safe? 

The loss of field experts increases the risk of irreversible damage, whether through neglect, mismanagement, or politically-motivated destruction. There are already alarming signs of censorship, including the removal of LGBTQ+ history from National Park Service websites and the deletion of January 6 cases from the Department of Justice’s database.

MICROACTIONS YOU CAN TAKE NOW

RESIST QUIETLY…BUT PERSISTENTLY

As public historians, we must stand in solidarity and let our colleagues know they’re not alone in this fight. We encourage everyone in our field to bear witness to the illegal actions destroying the American record, to lend your voice in protest, and to demonstrate care as the center of your resistance. Here’s what that can look like:

CURRENT FEDERAL EMPLOYEE

• Stay vigilant—do your job with integrity and keep an eye on removals or restrictions.
•  Secure your employment records—gather physical and digital copies of your position descriptions, performance ratings, and benefits.
•  Resist quietly—backup critical digital archives, especially those of historically  marginalized histories.
•  Document and share—track layoffs, collection removals, and policy changes at your local level to ensure the public stays informed.

FORMER FEDERAL EMPLOYEE (BEEN LET GO)

• Take time to process—this is a loss, and we’re grieving it with you. Your expertise and your work matter!
•  Retrieve what you can—make copies of your employment records before you lose access.
•  Make your voice heard—share insights (anonymously in community forums if safety is a concern) on what’s happening inside these institutions.

NON-FEDERAL COLLEAGUE

• Sign this petition—demand accountability for mass removals at NARA and beyond.
•  Write to representatives—urge them to investigate firings and removals of historical collections.
•  Protest in creative ways—symbols like an upside-down flag signal national distress in a non-violent way and make a statement without saying a word.
•  Support affected colleagues—offer networking help, resume reviews, or just a supportive ear.
•  Join the conversation—connect with like-minded communities online to share updates and resistance strategies.