A federal judge in Philadelphia issued a stern warning to Justice Department lawyers, calling their statements regarding the Trump Administration’s control over American history at National Park Service sites “dangerous” and “horrifying.”
The heated exchange took place during a hearing in Philadelphia following the sudden removal of an exhibit on the history of slavery at the former President’s House on Independence Mall.
The city, in collaboration with the park service, was taken aback by the removal of outdoor plaques and panels that showcased the stories of enslaved individuals who had resided there. The judge emphasized that history cannot be erased once it is learned.
The removal was a result of President Trump’s executive order to “restore truth and sanity to American history.” Concerns were raised about the potential damage to the materials during the removal process.
Justice Department lawyers claimed that the government has the authority to choose the message it wishes to convey, prompting the judge to express her dismay at such a statement.
Following hours of testimony from former city officials, the judge plans to visit the storage area and the site before ruling on the city’s request to have the exhibit restored.
The exhibit highlighted the biographies of nine individuals enslaved by George and Martha Washington, with only their names remaining engraved in a cement wall.
Advocates for the exhibit argued against the government’s unilateral authority to interpret the nation’s history, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives.
The judge expressed her intent to make a swift ruling, particularly in light of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding and the emotional response from visitors to the site.
Visitors to the site have expressed their emotions through tears, flowers, and messages acknowledging the reality of slavery in American history.
