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ICYMI: NYC Members Introduce Legislation for Commemorative Stamp Honoring 150th Anniversary of Metropolitan Museum of Art

Earlier this week, Congressman Jerrold Nadler (NY-10) and Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (NY-12), along with Senators Charles E. Schumer (D-NY) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), introduced a bipartisan resolution in support of the Citizen's Stamp Advisory Committee issuing a commemorative stamp to mark the 150th anniversary of the founding of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in Manhattan. Representatives Nadler and Maloney were joined by 28 cosponsors in the House supporting the Sense of Congress resolution in recognition of the Met’s many cultural contributions.

"For nearly 150 years, the Met has stood at the center of culture, art, and art education, not only in New York but across this country," said Congressman Jerrold Nadler. "This institution has done so much to collect, preserve, and present the culture of this country and to ensure that every New Yorker, every American, every student, and every visitor can experience its treasures. I am proud to represent this incredible museum, and I am proud to introduce this bill encouraging the Citizen’s Stamp Advisory Committee to issue a stamp honoring its 150th anniversary."

"The Met is a true New York institution that has brought culture and history to generations of visitors from across our city, our nation, and the world through its wonderful galleries, exhibitions, and events," said Senator Charles E. Schumer. "I am proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution to honor The Met’s 150th anniversary with a commemorative postal stamp, which will serve to remind Americans of this great museum’s countless contributions to our cultural heritage. Here’s to 150 more years!"

"The Metropolitan Museum of Art inspires millions of New Yorkers and visitors each year. Its galleries showcase masterpieces from around the globe and celebrate achievements throughout human history," said Senator Gillibrand. "This commemorative stamp would be a small tribute to this incomparable institution as we move to celebrate the Met’s 150th anniversary."

"Our city’s vibrant art culture and its outstanding artists are exemplified and inspired by the Met," said Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney. "The Metropolitan Museum of Art is not only a New York treasure, but a national hallmark that has inspired creativity for the last 150 years. A commemorative stamp is wonderful way to honor these contributions and celebrate the future of this iconic institution."

Daniel Weiss, President and CEO of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, stated, "The Met is grateful to Senators Schumer and Gillibrand and Representatives Nadler and Maloney for their enthusiastic support for this effort.  As the Met prepares to celebrate its 150th Anniversary in 2020, we could think of no better way to recognize The Met’s contribution to the cultural life of the nation than having the USPS issue a commemorative stamp for this special occasion."  Mr. Weiss added, "Over the nearly 150 years of our history, the Museum has welcomed tens of millions of visitors through our doors, our collection has been recognized as one of the finest of any museum worldwide and our education programs have been emulated throughout the county. We are certainly proud of these achievements and look forward to continuing and enhancing them in the years to come."

The Met, which is located in Rep. Nadler’s district, will celebrate the landmark anniversary in 2020 and was founded to bring art and art education to the American people. Throughout its history, the museum has built a collection of over four million items and welcomes over seven million visitors every year. The museum remains dedicated to conservation, preservation and research to ensure its treasures remain accessible to generations of visitors. It also welcomes over 230,000 students every year and engages over 2,000 educators each year in programming to integrate art into the classroom.

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