President Donald Trump has escalated his confrontation with the cultural narrative of American institutions by ordering an in-depth review of the Smithsonian Institution. The decision follows Trump’s allegations that museums are promoting divisive narratives and ‘woke’ ideology, which he claims undermines the United States’ achievements. The review encompasses a wide array of exhibits, internal protocols, and content related to the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding. The White House letter emphasizes the importance of aligning the institutions’ portrayal with themes of unity, progress, and American exceptionalism. The administrative directive calls for a review of all exhibitions and internal guidelines, ensuring that they reflect the country’s values and achievements rather than promoting divisive or partisan narratives. The timeline for this review is set with a 30-day deadline for material submission, followed by staff interviews within 75 days and content revision within 120 days. The White House framed this as a collaborative initiative to enhance the Smithsonian’s role in global cultural leadership, emphasizing the importance of accurate, uplifting, and inclusive presentations of America’s history.
Trump’s criticism of the Smithsonian and other museums is part of a broader strategy to reshape public narratives, ensuring they emphasize the United States’ strengths and unity. The review process is set to scrutinize exhibitions, internal processes, and educational materials, focusing on content alignment with the President’s vision. The letter highlights the significance of the upcoming 250th anniversary celebration, framing it as an opportunity to showcase the country’s collective achievements and values. The directive seeks to replace divisive or ideologically driven language with unifying, historically accurate, and constructive descriptions, aiming to restore public confidence in cultural institutions.