On a typical day at the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C., both Americans and international visitors flock to view iconic artifacts such as Dorothy’s ruby slippers from the “Wizard of Oz,” the first ladies’ inaugural gowns, and the historic flag that inspired the “Star-Spangled Banner.” Alongside these attractions, protesters holding signs with messages like “Truth Matters” or “History does not belong to rich old white men!” have become a common sight outside the museum entrance.
The museum is presently at the focal point of a Trump administration initiative that experts believe is part of a broader strategy to reshape the narratives of the United States as portrayed by cultural institutions. Suse Anderson, an associate professor and head of museum studies at George Washington University, noted that these actions intersect with two significant trends. The first trend involves a long-standing right-wing endeavor since the 1980s to exert more influence over cultural institutions, aligning exhibits and programs with conservative values. The second trend reflects an effort to diminish the authority of independent experts in areas where the administration seeks greater control.
In late July, President Donald Trump mandated the installation of signs outside the museum cautioning visitors about purportedly “inaccurate information” within. These signs, though not yet in place, are intended to direct visitors to a 162-page White House report released on America’s 250th anniversary. The report primarily scrutinizes the National Museum of American History, accusing Smithsonian leadership of “extreme political activism” and favoring narratives of shame and division over celebratory and patriotic accounts.
Trump’s criticism of the Smithsonian’s alleged focus on negative aspects of American history, particularly slavery, has sparked a series of actions by the administration to review the museum’s exhibits and programs. The Smithsonian, renowned as the world’s largest museum system, encompasses 21 museums, 14 research centers, and the National Zoo, housing over 150 million historical items and artworks.
Anthea Hartig, director of the National Museum of American History, faced intense questioning from Republicans during a House oversight committee session in late July, defending the museum’s commitment to America. The Smithsonian’s secretary, Lonnie Bunch, refuted the White House report’s portrayal of the museum’s work, emphasizing the institution’s dedication to scholarly accuracy and comprehensive storytelling of America’s history.
Despite the administration’s pressure, the Smithsonian has stood firm in upholding its independence. History professor James Millward, a co-founder of Citizen Historians for the Smithsonian, praised the institution’s resilience against political influence, contrasting it with other entities that swiftly yielded to White House demands. Millward expressed concerns that the recent actions could pave the way for appointing Smithsonian board members sympathetic to the administration’s agenda.
Mike Gonzalez, a contributor to Project 2025, echoed Trump’s stance at a committee hearing, asserting that the Smithsonian now focuses on teaching about American wrongdoings. The Smithsonian, established nearly 180 years ago, remains a trusted institution among Americans, ranking high in public trust surveys.
Susie Wilkening, a museum industry researcher, highlighted growing support for inclusive museum content among Americans, emphasizing the significance of the Smithsonian’s curatorial independence. Despite differing political views, a majority of Americans oppose political pressures to alter museum content, underscoring the value of museums in preserving diverse historical perspectives.
While some visitors like Amy Carlson Miesel found the museum’s emphasis on certain historical aspects disappointing, others like Tan Tran appreciated the diverse educational experiences offered by the Smithsonian. Tran’s friend, Rebecca Hill, acknowledged the museum’s portrayal of American history, encompassing both positive and negative facets of the nation’s past.