Trump Launches Campaign Against 'Anti-American Ideologies' at Smithsonian Museums

In a bold move to influence American cultural narratives, President Donald Trump has issued an executive order targeting the Smithsonian Institution, mandating an elimination of what he deems "improper, divisive, or anti-American ideology" across its museums and cultural centers.

 

President Donald Trump has taken a decisive step in influencing the cultural landscape of America by signing an executive order focused on the Smithsonian Institution, which manages over 20 museums and research centers that collectively attract millions of visitors annually in Washington, D.C., and New York City. This sweeping directive instructs Vice-President JD Vance to lead the charge in removing any elements considered to represent an "anti-American ideology" from these esteemed establishments, which include renowned sites like the National Museum of American History and the National Zoo.

The executive order, aptly titled "Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History," is aimed at reshaping public understanding of American history and culture, asserting that current presentations have misrepresented historical facts over recent years. Trump’s directive calls on the Interior Secretary to restore federal properties, such as parks and memorials, which he claims have been altered or removed in a way that distorts history.

The order explicitly expresses concerns about certain current museum initiatives, alleging that the planned American Women's History Museum intends to "recognize men as women," and chastising the National Museum of African American History and Culture for labeling ideals like hard work and individualism as elements of "White culture." These remarks reflect broader criticisms the Trump administration has directed toward educational content that emphasizes racial and social justice.

While the Smithsonian museums typically boast free entry for 15 to 30 million visitors each year, Trump's directives threaten to alter the nature of exhibits, stripping funding for programs that might promote divisive themes. The recent executive order escalates his ongoing efforts to combat what he refers to as "woke," leftist ideologies within American institutions. These recent actions follow a series of moves aimed at dismantling diversity initiatives within the federal framework, sometimes leading to legal pushback.

In addition to the Smithsonian, Trump is also directing improvements to Independence Hall in Philadelphia ahead of the 250th anniversary celebration of the Declaration of Independence, furthering his narrative of restoring American pride and historical integrity.

As these developments unfold, the ongoing debate surrounding the portrayal of American history within cultural institutions continues to intensify, reflecting the broader national discourse on identity, race, and history in a diversifying nation.