Demonstrators douse Whitney Museum entrance in fake blood during Gaza march
In a dramatic display of protest, the main entrance of the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City was drenched in fake blood during a march for Gaza. The act, captured in a video posted online by the Palestinian-American youth movement Within Our Lifetime, shows red paint dripping from the museum’s steps and revolving glass door while protesters wave Palestine flags in the background. The action targeted American hedge fund billionaire Ken Griffin, who was a former board member of the museum. This incident raises questions about the role of wealthy individuals in cultural institutions and their political affiliations.
A Critique of Ken Griffin’s Political Stance
Ken Griffin, a billionaire hedge fund manager, became the focus of the protesters’ ire due to his vocal criticism of a pro-Palestinian letter signed by student groups at Harvard University, his alma mater. Griffin, who was a trustee of the Whitney Museum until July 2021, has a net worth of $34 billion and is one of the largest donors to Harvard. His $300 million gift led to the naming of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences after him. Despite his departure from the museum’s board, his name still remains in the lobby.
Warren Kanders and Griffin’s Connection
Warren Kanders, the former vice chair of the Whitney Museum, resigned in 2019 following protests against his company’s involvement in the production of tear gas used against civilians worldwide. Griffin reportedly threatened to resign in solidarity with Kanders but ultimately decided to remain on the board. Kanders has since divested his company, Safariland Group, from divisions that sell tear gas and riot gear. Griffin’s departure from the board this summer further highlights the influence of wealthy individuals in cultural institutions.
Political Donations and Controversies
Griffin’s political donations have drawn attention and criticism. In 2021, he contributed $5 million to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’s political action committee (PAC) and has donated tens of millions more to conservative candidates. These donations have sparked debate about the influence of money in politics and the alignment of cultural institutions with certain political ideologies.
Calls for Griffin’s Resignation
Within Our Lifetime, the Palestinian-American youth movement responsible for the fake blood protest, demanded Griffin’s immediate resignation or expulsion from the museum’s board. They argue that there is “blood on the hands” of the Whitney Museum due to his association. While some commenters pointed out that Griffin had already stepped down, others suggested a thorough examination of the entire board, highlighting the need for accountability and transparency in cultural institutions.
Conclusion:
The fake blood protest at the Whitney Museum of American Art serves as a powerful reminder of the intersection between wealth, politics, and cultural institutions. The actions of protesters targeting Ken Griffin shed light on the influence that billionaires have in shaping the direction and values of these institutions. This incident prompts a broader conversation about the role of money in the arts and the responsibility of board members to reflect the diversity of perspectives within society. As cultural institutions continue to grapple with these issues, the Whitney Museum’s response to this event will be closely watched.
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