The White House has announced a comprehensive review of exhibitions at the Smithsonian Institution, aiming to align them with President Donald Trump's vision of American exceptionalism and to remove content deemed divisive or overly ideological. This initiative, detailed in a letter to Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III, focuses on eight key museums, including the National Museum of American History and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. The review is part of preparations for the United States' 250th anniversary celebrations.
The directive follows President Trump's March Executive Order titled "Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History," which criticises the Smithsonian for promoting a race-centered narrative. The White House emphasised its supportive role, stating that museum staff are expected to revise content within 120 days to meet new standards promoting historically accurate and inclusive portrayals of U.S. heritage. Additional museums will be addressed in a subsequent review phase.
In response, the Smithsonian has affirmed its commitment to scholarly excellence and accurate historical representation. The institution has pledged to cooperate with the review process, despite concerns about potential political influence over curatorial decisions in federal cultural institutions.
The review has sparked criticism, particularly regarding the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Civil rights leaders have alleged that the initiative aims to downplay Black Americans' historical experiences. The Smithsonian has denied altering exhibits under political pressure, although it recently removed temporary references to President Trump's impeachments, citing future inclusion in broader presidential narratives.
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, the Smithsonian's exhibitions are under scrutiny to ensure they reflect a unified and inclusive portrayal of the nation's history. The outcome of this review may significantly influence the institution's future direction and its role in shaping public understanding of American heritage.
