Revised Smithsonian Statement Regarding the Discovery Institute's Film Screening

Thanks to a friend and colleague at the Smithsonian Institute, I just received this updated statement regarding the Discovery Institute's film screening in their Baird Auditorium (see yesterday's statement here). The take-home message? The Smithsonian is returning the money to the Discovery Institute but they are still honoring the contract. What do you think of that, dear readers?


Subject: Statement * June 1, 2005

National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution

The Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History recently approved a request by the Discovery Institute to hold a private, invitation-only screening and reception at the Museum on June 23 for the film "The Privileged Planet." Upon further review we have determined that the content of the film is not consistent with the mission of the Smithsonian Institution's scientific research. Neither the Smithsonian Institution nor the National Museum of Natural History supports or endorses the views of the Discovery Institute or the film "The Privileged Planet." Given that the Discovery Institute has already issued invitations, we will honor the commitment made to provide space for the event, but will not participate or accept a donation for it.