In what seems like a mission to rejuvenate patriotic sentiments, the White House announced a review of selected exhibits at the Smithsonian Institution, aiming to align them with a vision of “American exceptionalism.” This undertaking seeks to smooth out what some deem as divisive narratives, reinstating trust in cultural institutions that should, theoretically, celebrate a unified American identity.
On August 12, officials issued this directive to explore how publicly visible content across the Smithsonian museums connects with President Donald Trump’s call for a reinforcement of U.S. exceptionalism. In a letter to Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch III, instructions were provided to evaluate websites, social media, and educational material—scrutinizing their tone and historical framing for conformity with American ideals.
This initiative coincides with plans for the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, as White House officials remarked on the necessity for national museums to demonstrate unity and the shared values that narrate the American experience.
The review will kick off with an examination of eight key museums, including the National Museum of American History and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, with prospects for further reviews in later phases.
In the correspondence, the White House described the revision as a means to align narratives with presidential directives, aiming to eliminate partisan rhetoric and restore faith in our cultural institutions.
Notably, the letter also alluded to Trump’s executive order, titled “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History,” which he signed on March 27. The directive specifically targets what the president labels the “revisionist movement,” which he contends seeks to distort history through ideologically driven narratives rather than relying on factual accounts. The Smithsonian was highlighted as an institution that, in Trump’s view, has succumbed to this “divisive, race-centered ideology.”
‘Focusing on Americanism’
The Smithsonian has been tasked with supplying a series of documents—including plans for the 250th anniversary celebration, exhibition outlines, and lists of invited speakers—some of which are due within a month of receiving the letter. Interviews with curators and senior staff are also expected to be staged within this initial timeframe, with a complete strategy to mark the nation’s birthday aimed for completion in 75 days.
Moreover, the museums have been instructed to implement necessary content corrections within 120 days, emphasizing a transition from divisive language to descriptions that are historically accurate and fostering of unity across all public-facing materials.
According to the letter, this review should be seen as collaborative—a chance for the Smithsonian staff to adopt a revitalized curatorial vision that draws upon the achievements and principles underlying the American narrative. “By focusing on Americanism—the people, principles, and progress that define our nation—we can collaborate to reestablish the Smithsonian as a leading global museum institution,” officials expressed.
The Smithsonian, which encompasses a network of 21 museums and the National Zoological Park, derives about 62% of its operational funding from federal allocations, amounting to over $1 billion annually, as detailed on its official website.
In response to the White House’s directive, the Smithsonian issued a statement on August 13 affirming its commitment to scholarly rigor and accurate historical representation. “We are evaluating the letter within the context of this commitment and will continue to engage constructively with the White House, Congress, and our Board of Regents,” the statement clarified.
Rolling Back DEI
This review aligns with a broader agenda of the Trump administration to dismantle principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion from various U.S. institutions, including government, education, and even the military. In a notable move earlier this year, Trump disbanded the board of trustees at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, replacing it with a board that aligns closely with his perspectives.
The president criticized the Kennedy Center for what he described as the dissemination of “anti-American propaganda” and has committed to reorienting its mission towards his vision for a “Golden Age of American Arts and Culture.” Furthermore, earlier in the year, Trump set in motion plans for a year-long celebration to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence, framed as not just one day of festivities, but a nationwide year-long jubilee.
Ryan Morgan contributed to this report.
If you found this article interesting, please consider supporting traditional journalism
Launching its first edition from a modest basement in Atlanta 25 years ago, The Epoch Times now delivers award-winning journalism to millions across the nation.
Despite threats, arrests, and assaults faced by our reporters, our unwavering commitment to independent journalism stands strong. As we celebrate 25 years free from corporate or political influence, we invite you to enjoy a limited-time introductory offer of just $1 per week to join countless others celebrating independent news.
