Colombia removes over 30 artworks from National Museum amid culture war

The Colombian government ordered the removal of more than 30 artworks from the National Museum in Bogotá. The works, taken from at least three exhibition halls, referenced LGBTIQ+ and feminist movements, victims of political violence from the Patriotic Union, and the Peace Agreement.

President Abelardo de la Espriella announced the move during an official visit to the Culture Ministry, calling it the epicenter of a "cultural counterrevolution." He described an open and patriotic struggle against "wokism," which he said seeks to transform Western moral, cultural, and social foundations.

“The National Museum is a space for all Colombians, which must watch over, among others, the fundamental rights of children, which are prevalent according to article 44 of the Constitution, and therefore must protect them from access to sensitive material.”

Culture Minister Paola Holguín defended the decision on social media, stating the works promoted political indoctrination and spread biased versions of history. She said the museum cannot be a space for apologizing for crime or revictimization and must protect children from sensitive material.

Julián Sterling, the minister's general secretary, executed the order accompanied by acting director Katia González. Museum sources said the works were selected behind closed doors, bypassing the museum's curatorial committees.

The National Museum has not confirmed the exact number of removed works or the reasons for their removal. Minister Holguín had not responded to La Silla Vacía by the time of publication.