Trump Administration Orders Smithsonian Overhaul: A New Cultural Narrative

Fri Oct 17 2025 03:40:27 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a significant move that reflects President Trump's cultural agenda, the administration mandates the Smithsonian Institution to eliminate narratives deemed divisive or anti-American. This directive might reshape the portrayal of history across major American museums.

The Trump administration's executive order, titled 'Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History,' instructs the Smithsonian Institution to remove exhibits and research content considered improper or divisive. This initiative targets conversations around systemic racism and other contentious historical themes, aiming to promote a more patriotic view of American history. The Smithsonian faces potential budget cuts and is under pressure to align its exhibits with the administration’s vision of American values. While supporters see this as a necessary correction in storytelling, critics warn it may undermine scholarly integrity by sanitizing uncomfortable truths.

In a sweeping directive that underscores President Donald J. Trump’s cultural agenda, the administration has formally ordered the Smithsonian Institution to remove what it defines as 'improper, divisive or anti-American ideology' from its museums, exhibits, research centers, and the National Zoo.

What’s Actually Happening

Executive Order: On March 27, 2025, Trump signed 'Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History,' directing Vice President J.D. Vance to lead an effort to purge the Smithsonian of narratives the administration views as ideologically skewed.

Targets and Scope: The order questions exhibits discussing systemic racism, re-examines traditional narratives of Western values, or present race and identity as central to oppression. Museums named include the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the future American Women’s History Museum.

Funding & Oversight: Budget allocations for displays considered divisive may be cut. The order also calls on Congress to ensure future appropriations prohibit materials that 'degrade shared American values, divide Americans based on race, or promote ideologies inconsistent with Federal law and policy.'

Exhibit Changes: As part of that directive, the Smithsonian removed references to Trump’s impeachments from the 'American Presidency: A Glorious Burden' display at the National Museum of American History.

Why It Matters

Narrative Control: The Smithsonian plays a crucial role in telling America’s national story. Altering highlighted narratives reshapes public memory.

Cultural Signaling: This aligns with Trump’s push for patriotism and traditional values, appealing to voters craving national pride.

Pushback from Scholars & Curators: Critics argue removing uncomfortable history like slavery or racial oppression undermines public education.

Key Quotes

“The Smithsonian should be places where individuals go to learn — not to be subjected to ideological indoctrinization or divisive narratives that distort our shared history.” — Trump’s executive order.

“The Smithsonian’s work is grounded in a deep commitment to scholarly excellence … we will continue to collaborate constructively with the White House …” — Smithsonian statement.

Possible Outcomes & Implications

Revisions of Exhibits: Exhibits may be revised to omit or alter language around race, gender, and oppression.

Changes in Curatorial Staff or Direction: The review may alter staff or grant priorities to align with American exceptionalism themes.

Political Backlash: While supporters might welcome this shift, academics and cultural institutions could express serious concern over historical apathy.

Long-term Cultural Effect: Changes influenced by this initiative may shape public memory leading into America’s 250th anniversary in 2026.

Pro-Trump Perspective

Supporters see this shift as a correction. They argue that federal institutions have focused too heavily on America's failures, advocating for a narrative that emphasizes achievements and shared values.