Museums to Share Plans for Trump Administration Exhibits
In a significant development, the U.S. government has initiated a comprehensive internal review of selected Smithsonian museums and exhibitions. The review aims to examine the content of these institutions for potential biases in the portrayal of American history[1].
The review, which was initiated in August 2025, is focused on ensuring historically accurate, uplifting, and inclusive narratives aligned with American ideals. Key aspects being evaluated include public-facing content such as exhibition texts, educational materials, and digital content for tone and historical framing. Curatorial processes, current and future exhibition planning, use of collections, and the development of narrative standards are also under scrutiny[1].
The review is being conducted ahead of the 250th anniversary of the USA next year. The initiative is described as constructive and collaborative, not intended to interfere with day-to-day museum operations but to support a vision of excellence and trustworthiness for the Smithsonian's institutions[1].
Museums in Washington, D.C., including the Smithsonian Institution, are required to submit concept designs, exhibition plans, catalogs, and programs of all current exhibitions to the presidential administration of Donald Trump. The White House has sent a letter to the Smithsonian Institution regarding this review[1].
The review includes examination of exhibition texts, wall labels, websites, and educational materials. The incomparable heritage of the nation, which drives freedom, individual rights, and the happiness of people, has been accused of being portrayed as racist, sexist, oppressive, or otherwise irredeemably flawed[1].
The review of exhibitions in museums for potentially divisive or biased narratives now includes the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Museum of the American Indian, the National Air and Space Museum, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the National Portrait Gallery, and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden[1].
Critics accuse Trump of instigating a cultural war and thereby restricting artistic freedom and freedom of expression. Some documents must be submitted within 30 days[1]. This is not the first time Donald Trump has criticized museums.
[1] Source: Official Decree from Donald Trump and Smithsonian Institution Communications.
- The review, initiated by the presidential administration of Donald Trump, encompasses an examination of exhibition texts, wall labels, websites, and educational materials across various Smithsonian museums, including the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of Natural History, and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
- Beyond policy-and-legislation and general-news, this review is also a significant part of the politics surrounding the portrayal of American history, as it involves the scrutiny of curatorial processes, future exhibition planning, and the development of narrative standards in the selected Smithsonian museums.
