In a significant move, US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at the Smithsonian Institution, which manages over 20 museums and research centers that welcome millions of visitors each year in Washington DC and New York City. This order mandates the vice president to eliminate any improper, divisive, or anti-American ideologies that may be present in the exhibits of the institute's museums, centers, and the iconic National Zoo in Washington.
Furthermore, the executive order directs the Secretary of the Interior to restore federal properties, including parks, memorials, and statues that have been improperly removed or altered over the last five years. This initiative aims to combat what the administration describes as a false revision of history. Titled Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History, the order emphasizes the need for an accurate representation of American heritage.
The order specifies that Vice-President JD Vance, who holds a position on the Smithsonian Board of Regents, will spearhead this initiative to purge divisive content. It also states that Congress should withhold funding for Smithsonian exhibits and programs that are perceived to divide Americans along racial lines. This includes scrutiny of the American Women's History Museum, which is currently in development and has been accused of planning to recognize men as women.
Additionally, the executive order calls out the National Museum of African American History and Culture, highlighting claims that the museum has categorized fundamental values such as 'hard work', 'individualism', and 'the nuclear family' as elements of 'White culture'. Opened in 2016 during the final days of former President Barack Obama's administration, this museum has become a focal point of contention regarding the representation of African American history.
The Smithsonian museums collectively attract between 15 to 30 million visitors annually, providing free admission to a wide array of cultural and historical exhibits. The institution encompasses 21 museums located in Washington, Virginia, and New York, including notable sites such as the National Museum of American History and the National Portrait Gallery.
Moreover, the executive order instructs Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum to expedite restorations and improvements to Independence Hall in Philadelphia. This directive comes in anticipation of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, which was historic for taking place within the halls of this building.
Through this executive order, Trump aims to radically reshape American culture, which he claims has been tainted by what he describes as woke left-wing ideology. His administration has introduced several orders aimed at dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion programs within the federal government, some of which have sparked legal challenges. Early in his presidency, Trump dismissed the board of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington DC and positioned himself as chairman, an action that drew substantial criticism from the arts community, leading to the cancellation of multiple performances.
