In a significant move ahead of the United States' 250th anniversary, the White House has ordered a comprehensive internal review of selected Smithsonian museums and exhibitions. This initiative aims to ensure that the nation's premier cultural institutions align with President Donald Trump's vision of American exceptionalism and present historically accurate and inclusive representations of U.S. heritage.
The directive, detailed in a letter from top White House officials to Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch III, outlines steps for assessing exhibits, social media, and educational materials. The goal is to avoid "divisive or partisan narratives" and to promote a unified portrayal of American history. The review will initially focus on eight major museums, including the National Museum of American History and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
This action follows President Trump's earlier executive order titled "Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History," which criticized the Smithsonian for allegedly promoting a "divisive, race-centered ideology." The White House emphasized its role as supportive rather than controlling, stating that the review is intended to assist the Smithsonian in presenting a more unified narrative.
In response, the Smithsonian has affirmed its commitment to scholarly excellence, rigorous research, and accurate historical representation. The institution has pledged to cooperate with the review process, with museums required to submit exhibit materials within 30 days and implement changes within 120 days.
Critics have raised concerns about the potential for political influence over curatorial decisions in federal cultural institutions. Civil rights leaders, in particular, have criticized the focus on the National Museum of African American History and Culture, alleging efforts to downplay Black Americans' historical experiences. The Smithsonian has denied altering exhibits under political pressure, although it recently removed temporary references to Trump's impeachments, citing future inclusion in broader presidential narratives.
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, this review underscores the ongoing debate over the role of museums in shaping national identity and the balance between political influence and academic freedom. The outcome of this initiative may set a precedent for how cultural institutions navigate political pressures in the future.
