Defending the Autry

As a longtime supporter of both the American Indian Movement and the Autry Museum of Western Heritage, I was stunned to read of AIM’s intent to issue a resolution to boycott the museum (“Boycott of Autry Museum Is Planned,” by Christopher Knight, April 27).

AIM’s Vernon Bellecourt references an intended takeover of the Southwest Museum by the Autry, describing the Autry as a “cowboy museum” that promotes “the insidious, racist stereotyping of American Indians.” In truth, there is no intended takeover. In truth, the Autry acknowledges the mythological West without judgment and explores the multicultural diversity of the historical West with respect and scholarship. To wit, the Autry’s current exhibit, “Out of the Mist: Treasures of the Nuu-chah-nulth Chiefs,” was curated in coordination with the Nuu-chah-nulth tribal council.

To take the platform that Native Americans maintain their own culture is admirable. To call for a boycott based on contempt prior to investigation is nothing less than irresponsible.

KATHRYN RADCLIFFE

Sherman Oaks

To attack the Autry for discussing an “alliance” with the stodgy Southwest Museum is ludicrous, in light of all of the more pressing and relevant issues the Indian movement could be challenging. I once visited the Southwest Museum, in Mount Washington, and found it interesting but musty and uninviting. Compare that with the dynamic, incredibly erudite, visually stunning displays at the Autry.

Shame on The Times for giving this narrow, prejudiced viewpoint such a platform. JAY WESTON

Beverly Hills