On Tuesday, President Donald Trump announced that the White House is undertaking a comprehensive review of the Smithsonian museums. His remarks expressed frustration over what he perceives as an overly negative portrayal of America's history, particularly concerning slavery and its implications. Trump took to his social media platform to voice his dissatisfaction, stating, "The Smithsonian is OUT OF CONTROL, where everything discussed is how horrible our Country is, how bad Slavery was, and how unaccomplished the downtrodden have been." He emphasized that the narrative offered by these institutions fails to highlight America’s successes and future potential.
Trump declared that he would not allow the current narrative to continue. He mentioned, "I have instructed my attorneys to go through the Museums, and start the exact same process that has been done with Colleges and Universities where tremendous progress has been made." His statement underscores a commitment to reshape the portrayal of history in a way that highlights unity and progress rather than focusing solely on past grievances. He added, "This Country cannot be WOKE, because WOKE IS BROKE," suggesting that he believes a more positive narrative is essential for America's identity.
The Smithsonian Institution has not provided any comments regarding Trump's statements. However, reports from ABC News indicate that the White House's review is part of a broader initiative leading up to America’s 250th anniversary next year. In a letter addressed to Lonnie Bunch, the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, the White House expressed its desire to ensure that exhibitions accurately reflect the unity, progress, and core values that define the American story.
Interestingly, Trump's views on the Smithsonian have evolved over time. During his visit to The National Museum of African American History and Culture in 2017, he praised the museum’s discussion of slavery, calling it "incredible" and "done with love." At that time, he commended notable abolitionists such as Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, and Frederick Douglass, describing the museum tour as a "meaningful reminder" of the fight against bigotry and intolerance.
The forthcoming review is expected to focus on eight prominent museums within the Smithsonian, including:
The National Museum of African American History and CultureThe National Museum of American HistoryThe National Museum of Natural HistoryThe National Museum of the American IndianThe Smithsonian American Art MuseumThe National Air and Space MuseumThe National Portrait GalleryThe Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture GardenIn March, Trump signed an executive order directing Vice President JD Vance and Interior Department Secretary Doug Burgum to eliminate what he termed "improper ideology" from all areas of the Smithsonian. This move aligns with his broader agenda to reshape educational narratives in America.
Last week, ABC News visited several Smithsonian locations, including the National Museum of American History and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Their coverage highlighted multiple exhibits that focus on the themes of slavery, segregation, and the civil rights movement, illustrating the complexities of America's historical narrative.
As this review progresses, it will be interesting to see how the Smithsonian responds to the White House's directives and whether the portrayal of America's past will shift toward a more optimistic view of its history and accomplishments.
