The opening of the National Museum of the American Indian, which opened this past week, is long overdue. Much like the World War II Memorial, which opened this summer, it should have been built many years ago.
Now that it's finally here, people should use the museum as a chance to learn about American Indian culture. Early reports indicate that visitors have been more interested in exhibits detailing the culture of the past than those involving the culture of the present for Native Americans.
The museum lets people learn new things about American Indians, not just old stereotypes. The museum exists to provide a better learning experience about American Indians than one can find in cartoons and film portrayals, however well done, like "Dances With Wolves." It's certainly good there's reference to American Indians in D.C. that's not related to the Washington Redskins.
If there's one thing to criticize about the new museum, it's that the organizers should keep it open later than just 5:30 p.m., only a 30-minute extension from the other Smithsonian museums. Over the next few weeks, thousands of visitors will pass through the museum's doors to learn more about an integral part of American history.
As every D.C. resident knows, when something new - and free - opens, the city gets swamped with tourists. This time, let's try to keep the museum open a little later so that all people will get their chance to see the newest addition to the Mall.
