Fake Blood Protest Targets Whitney Museum of American Art in New York

Demonstrators call for resignation of former trustee and hedge fund billionaire Ken Griffin

The main entrance of the renowned Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City was the site of a dramatic protest on November 22. During a march for Gaza, activists doused the front steps of the museum with fake blood, leaving a striking visual statement. The protest was captured in a video posted by the Palestinian-American youth movement Within Our Lifetime, showing red paint dripping from the museum’s entrance while protesters waved Palestine flags nearby. The action was aimed at drawing attention to former trustee Ken Griffin, an American hedge fund billionaire, who has faced criticism for his stance on pro-Palestinian issues. This incident marks another chapter in the museum’s history of contentious relationships with its board members.

Ken Griffin’s Controversial Stance and Departure

Ken Griffin, a prominent figure in the finance industry with an estimated net worth of $34 billion, was a member of the Whitney Museum’s board of trustees until July of this year. He came under fire for his vocal opposition to a pro-Palestinian letter signed by student groups at his alma mater, Harvard University. Griffin’s criticism of the letter, coupled with his significant donations to the university, sparked controversy and drew attention to his influence. Despite the backlash, Griffin’s name still remains on the walls of the museum’s lobby, further fueling the protesters’ anger.

Griffin’s departure from the board followed the resignation of Warren Kanders in 2019. Kanders, the vice-chair of the museum, faced months of protests due to his company’s involvement in the production of tear gas used against civilians worldwide, including asylum seekers at the US-Mexico border. Although Griffin initially threatened to resign in solidarity with Kanders, he ultimately decided to remain on the board. However, his quiet departure this summer further intensified the concerns surrounding his association with the museum.

Calls for Griffin’s Resignation and Examination of the Board

Within Our Lifetime has demanded that Ken Griffin immediately resign or be expelled from the Whitney Museum’s board. The activists argue that the museum has blood on its hands due to Griffin’s involvement. While one commenter on Instagram noted that Griffin had already stepped down, they suggested investigating other hedge fund billionaires who remain on the board. The sentiment among some protesters is that a thorough examination of the entire board is necessary to ensure transparency and accountability.

Conclusion:

The recent protest at the Whitney Museum of American Art highlights the ongoing tensions between influential board members and the public. Ken Griffin’s departure from the board, following his controversial statements and political donations, has drawn attention to the role of wealthy individuals in shaping cultural institutions. The demand for his resignation reflects a wider desire for accountability and ethical considerations within the art world. As the museum navigates these challenges, it must address the concerns raised by protesters and engage in a meaningful dialogue with the public to maintain its reputation as a respected institution.