PHILADELPHIA — The oldest natural history museum in the Americas is facing an unprecedented threat, and the Philadelphia community is fighting back. After Drexel University announced plans to permanently close the Academy of Natural Sciences museum to the public by the end of September 2026, residents, scientists, and educators have mobilized in droves to reverse the decision.
At the center of this grassroots movement is a rapidly growing Petition to Keep the Academy of Natural Sciences Open to the Public. Organized on the Action Network by the Save the Academy Coalition and local community groups, the digital petition has already amassed over 107,000 signatures, rapidly approaching its goal of 204,800.
The Push for Transparency and Access
For nearly two centuries, the Academy of Natural Sciences has been a cultural cornerstone of Philadelphia, introducing generations of schoolchildren to paleontology through its iconic Dinosaur Hall and historic dioramas. The impending closure has sparked widespread outrage, with many residents pointing fingers at Drexel University, which entered a historic affiliation with the institution over a decade ago.
The Action Network petition lays out a clear set of demands for university leadership and key decision-makers:
- Keep the museum open to the public beyond September 2026.
- Engage transparently with Philadelphia residents, scientists, educators, and museum members.
- Explore all viable alternatives to a permanent public closure.
Organizers argue that closing the museum doors would mean losing an irreplaceable resource for public education and civic identity. Critics have also raised concerns regarding financial transparency, noting the severe cultural blow to the city following the loss of other institutions, such as the Philadelphia History Museum, whose collection was also previously absorbed by Drexel.
A City Mobilized
The backlash has spilled far beyond online signatures. In recent weeks, Philadelphia residents have staged in-person protests outside the museum on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Social media platforms like Reddit and Facebook have been flooded with campaigns urging locals to make one final visit, resulting in completely packed halls as residents rush to see the historic exhibits.
As the deadline for the public closure looms, the massive community response sends a clear message: Philadelphia won't let its history be locked away.
To view the demands or add your name to the movement, visit the official Action Network petition.
