In a bold move, President Trump aims to reshape American cultural narratives and preserve traditional values within prominent museums and research centers.
Trump Signs Order to Erase 'Anti-American Ideology' from Smithsonian Museums
Trump Signs Order to Erase 'Anti-American Ideology' from Smithsonian Museums
US President takes action against divisive narratives at cultural institutions across the nation.
In a significant directive, President Donald Trump has signed an executive order addressing perceived "anti-American ideology" manifested within the Smithsonian Institution, which encompasses over 20 museums and research sites frequented by millions in Washington, D.C., and New York City. This order mandates Vice President JD Vance to eliminate what Trump deems “improper, divisive, or anti-American ideology” from the Smithsonian's exhibits, including the National Zoo. Additionally, the order calls for the restoration of federal properties, such as parks, memorials, and statues that have been altered in recent years, claiming that these changes foster a misleading version of history.
Titled "Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History," the executive order represents Trump’s ongoing campaign to influence American culture alongside political measures. The administration asserts that henceforth, Congress should refrain from funding exhibits or educational programs that could "divide Americans by race." Within the order, the newly proposed American Women's History Museum faces scrutiny over its alleged intention to "recognize men as women," whereas the National Museum of African American History and Culture is critiqued for labeling key societal values like "hard work," "individualism," and the "nuclear family" as elements of “White culture.”
As a cultural beacon since its inception, the Smithsonian Institute attracts approximately 15 to 30 million visitors annually, offering free admission to its 21 museums, including the National Museum of American History and the National Portrait Gallery. Furthermore, the order tasks Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum with completing renovations to Independence Hall in Philadelphia in anticipation of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Amidst a broader campaign, this move reflects Trump's determination to eradicate what he perceives as a left-wing “woke” ideology that he claims has tainted American culture. His administration has previously set forth various orders aimed at dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives within federal realms, some leading to legal disputes. This cultural adjustment strategy was first seen when Trump dismissed the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts board, subsequently elevating himself to chairman—a decision met with backlash from the arts community, prompting several planned performances to be canceled.
