US President Donald Trump has recently signed an executive order targeting the Smithsonian Institution, a renowned organization that operates more than 20 museums and research centers visited by millions yearly in Washington DC and New York City. The order directs the vice-president to “eliminate improper, divisive, or anti-American ideology” from the institute’s museums, centers, and the National Zoo in Washington. This move is part of Trump’s effort to shape American culture, in addition to politics.
The order, titled “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History,” appoints Vice-President JD Vance to lead the purge of what the administration deems as inappropriate content within the Smithsonian’s exhibits and programs. The order also states that Congress should not fund Smithsonian exhibits and programs that “divide Americans by race.” It specifically calls out the American Women’s History Museum, accusing it of planning to “recognize men as women.”
Furthermore, the order singles out the National Museum of African American History and Culture, alleging that the museum has labeled “hard work,” “individualism,” and “the nuclear family” as aspects of “White culture.” This museum, which opened in 2016 in Washington, has been a significant cultural and historical landmark, especially during former President Barack Obama’s tenure as America’s first black president.
The Smithsonian museums attract a vast number of visitors each year, ranging from 15 to 30 million individuals. With 21 museums spread across Washington, Virginia, and New York, including notable institutions like the National Museum of American History, the National Portrait Gallery, the American Art Museum, and the National Zoo, the Smithsonian plays a crucial role in preserving and showcasing American history and culture.
In addition to targeting the Smithsonian, Trump’s executive order instructs Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum to complete “restorations and improvements” to Independence Hall in Philadelphia. This directive comes ahead of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, a pivotal moment in American history that took place within the historic building.
Trump’s actions reflect his broader agenda to reshape American culture, which he believes has been tainted by what he refers to as “woke” left-wing ideology. He has signed multiple orders aimed at eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion programs from the federal government, some of which have faced legal challenges. Shortly after taking office, Trump also made controversial changes at the John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington DC, sparking criticism and leading to performance cancellations by various artists and directors.
In conclusion, Trump’s executive order targeting the Smithsonian Institution is a significant development in his ongoing efforts to influence American culture and history. The implications of this order, particularly in terms of censorship and historical revisionism, raise important questions about the preservation of diverse perspectives and the freedom of expression within cultural institutions.
