Trump intensifies critiques towards Smithsonian museums, claiming excessive emphasis on 'the severity of slavery's impact'
In a move that has sparked controversy, President Donald Trump has launched an unprecedented review of the Smithsonian Institution, the world's largest museum and research complex. The review, as stated in an executive order signed in March 2025, aims to ensure alignment with Trump's directive to celebrate American exceptionalism, remove divisive or partisan narratives, and restore confidence in cultural institutions.
The review process, reminiscent of actions taken at colleges and universities, is focused on public-facing content, the curatorial process, exhibition planning, the use of existing materials and collections, and guidelines for narrative standards. Trump has tasked a former member of his legal team, attorney Lindsey Halligan, with helping to root out "improper ideology" at the Smithsonian.
The White House announced an sweeping review of the Smithsonian Institution, with a formal, ongoing internal review of Smithsonian museums and exhibitions currently underway. Museums have been asked to submit documentation and update plans for America’s 250th anniversary celebrations. The process involves interviews with museum staff and scheduled content corrections to replace what the administration characterizes as ideologically driven language with "unifying, historically accurate, and constructive descriptions" in exhibits.
Trump's comments come days after the announcement of the review. He has publicly criticized Smithsonian exhibits for focusing heavily on negative aspects of American history, such as slavery, without highlighting success and positivity. The White House has not yet provided further clarity on the process Trump described with his attorneys and his comments about slavery.
The Smithsonian Institution, however, declined to comment publicly on the review. The review is expected to conclude with a final report in early 2026. The review process is part of a broader initiative to address perceived issues in cultural institutions, as Trump stated that everything discussed in museums is how horrible the country is, how bad slavery was, and how unaccomplished the downtrodden have been.
The White House letter dated August 12, 2025, outlines clear deadlines: within 75 days, museums must supply remaining requested materials and coordinate anniversary plans, and within 120 days they should begin implementing content changes. This collaborative effort is framed as a revitalization aimed at celebrating "Americanism," focusing on the nation’s achievements and principles, avoiding "woke" narratives as expressed by Trump.
[1] [News Source 1] [2] [News Source 2]
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