President Donald Trump has directed a comprehensive review of the Smithsonian Institution’s exhibitions, aiming to remove divisive narratives and promote a focus on American exceptionalism. This review is part of his broader effort to ‘make our government institutions Great Again’ by addressing what he views as the Biden administration’s influence on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) and anti-American messaging. The initiative, announced in an executive order earlier this year, seeks to align the Smithsonian’s content with the celebration of American history and values, particularly in preparation for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence next year.
The Smithsonian Institution, however, has a mission rooted in exploring the history and legacy of race and racism in the United States and globally, with a goal of sparking positive social change and building a more equitable shared future. Trump’s directive has sparked significant criticism from historians and curators, who argue that such a review could compromise the institution’s commitment to presenting a comprehensive and accurate history. As the museum’s website states, its purpose is to ‘increase and diffuse knowledge about the history and legacy of racism while building pathways towards a more equitable shared future.’
Trump’s plan has drawn backlash from organizations like the American Historical Association, with its executive director, Sarah Weicksel, condemning the White House’s effort as an affront to historians and curators trained to ensure historical accuracy. Weicksel emphasized that removing the focus on race and racism could deprive the public of access to a nuanced and complete understanding of American history. Critics argue that the museum’s current approach, which highlights the nation’s complex and often unflattering history, is essential for fostering informed public discourse.
The review of the Smithsonian’s exhibitions is part of a broader political effort by Trump to reshape cultural institutions in line with his vision of American exceptionalism. The initiative includes a planned review of all exhibition content by the White House, aimed at ensuring alignment with his directives to ‘celebrate American exceptionalism, remove divisive or partisan narratives, and restore confidence in our shared cultural institutions.’ The proposal has also sparked discussions on the role of taxpayer-funded institutions in national discourse and the balance between historical accuracy and ideological narratives.
Supporters of Trump argue that the museum’s current focus is skewed and fails to highlight the nation’s achievements, such as technological innovation, medical advancements, and global leadership. They contend that the institution should be remade to reflect a more positive and unified vision of American history. However, critics counter that such a shift risks erasing the complexity of the past and undermining the museum’s educational mission.