White House Calls for Review of Smithsonian Museums  

This initiative aims to ensure alignment with the President’s directive to celebrate American exceptionalism, remove divisive or partisan narratives, and restore confidence in our shared cultural institutions.

The Trump administration in a letter sent to The Smithsonian Institution on Tuesday requesting a “comprehensive internal review” of eight museums. 

What to Know: The letter calls for the Smithsonian to survey information and make edits as needed, particularly related to exhibitions planned for the 250^th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence that will be celebrated next year. The letter states the Smithsonian should replace “divisive or ideologically driven language with unifying, historically accurate” information.   

Something To Consider: A professor of art history at Georgetown University questions the Trump administration’s review of history, saying, “Museums cannot change content to suit a political whim or agenda. The best way for museums to maintain the high public trust they already enjoy is by remaining independent. Museums are staffed by experts in their fields who interpret the collection to help educate the public about art, history, science and culture. Their content should not be reviewed, revised, or edited for political gain.“ 

Learn More:  

• White House calls for a ‘comprehensive review’ of eight Smithsonian museums (NPR) 
• White House to Vet Smithsonian Museums to Fit Trump’s Historical Vision (WSJ Gift Link) 

Image Credit: Smithsonian Institution