On Wednesday afternoon, the National Archives building and galleries were evacuated due to an incident where two protesters emptied red powder on the protective case surrounding the US Constitution. The episode unfolded at approximately 2:30 pm, as reported by the National Archives, and fortunately, no harm befell the Constitution itself.
A video circulating on the X social media platform captures the moment when two individuals, drenched in reddish-pink powder, stand before the Constitution's protective glass case, which is equally covered in the splattered substance. In the video, one of the men declares their intent to incite a rebellion, emphasizing the need for clean air, water, food, and a sustainable climate. Law enforcement subsequently intervened and escorted the pair away from the scene.
Colleen Shogan, Archivist of the United States, expressed the significance of the National Archives Rotunda as a sanctuary for the nation's foundational documents, emphasizing their accessibility for all Americans to comprehend the principles upon which the nation was built. Shogan stated, "We take such vandalism very seriously, and we will insist that the perpetrators be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."
Despite the disruptive incident, the National Archives building is anticipated to reopen on Thursday, resuming its role as a repository of historical documents and a place for the public to engage with the nation's heritage.
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