Trump’s Executive Order Disrupts Smithsonian Institution

A view of the Smithsonian Institution's museums during cherry blossom season.

News Summary

On March 28, 2025, President Trump issued an executive order targeting the Smithsonian Institution, aiming to eliminate what he calls ‘anti-American ideology.’ This directive has sparked widespread backlash from board members and the public. Critics argue the order promotes a sanitized version of history, particularly impacting institutions like the Smithsonian American Art Museum. With funding at stake, the implications of this move may reshape how American history is portrayed and could jeopardize important cultural programs.

Trump’s Executive Order Rocks the Smithsonian Institution

On March 28, 2025, President Trump dropped a bombshell—an executive order aimed at the Smithsonian Institution. This order is centered on what Trump refers to as the elimination of “anti-American ideology” from this beloved cultural treasure trove. The response to this sweeping directive is nothing short of bewilderment and disapproval from a broad spectrum of voices, including board members of the Smithsonian and concerned citizens.

Timing couldn’t be more interesting, as this announcement hit just as visitors from all over were flocking to Washington, D.C. to soak up the gorgeous spring weather and witness the stunning cherry blossoms. It’s a time that typically emphasizes the beauty of history and culture, but this new executive order could change the narrative.

Another Attempt to Reshape Culture

This isn’t the first time Trump has sought to reshape America’s cultural landscape. This marks his second significant maneuver after recently overhauling the board of the Kennedy Center. Critics have lined up to express their disdain, with figures like Senator Catherine Cortez Masto and former Senator Patrick J. Leahy leading the charge against Trump’s ambition to change the way we perceive American history.

The order portrays the Smithsonian as having embraced a “divisive, race-centered ideology,” pushing for a return to a narrative that focuses on American excellence. This move includes plans to restore monuments and memorials that have been taken down in recent years, particularly those linked to Confederate figures—a point that’s sure to stir controversy.

Targeting Specific Museums

Among the institutions facing scrutiny are the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Trump’s order criticizes these museums for promoting narratives the administration finds unpalatable. A particularly eyebrow-raising claim made within the text mentions that the proposed American Women’s History Museum would somehow glorify “the exploits of male athletes participating in women’s sports,” a notion the Smithsonian has promptly refuted.

Financial Oversight and Concerns

To solidify this initiative, Vice President JD Vance has been appointed to review Smithsonian expenditures, aiming to block funding for programs deemed to “degrade shared American values.” Considering that approximately 60% of the Smithsonian’s funding comes from federal appropriations, the implications of this executive order could have serious financial ramifications, potentially jeopardizing some of the institution’s most impactful programs.

Public Reaction and Historic Perspective

As backlash builds, many locals and visitors alike have voiced their worries regarding this move towards a whitewashed version of history. There’s a prevalent sentiment that history should be faced in its entirety, complete with all its uncomfortable truths. It appears that this executive order aligns with a broader strategy aimed at softening the discussions around racism and minimizing the significant contributions of Black Americans.

Civil rights advocates and historians are particularly incensed, arguing that this process feels like an erasure of the painful elements of American history, rewriting it through a racially insensitive lens.

Comparing Historical Rhetoric

Interestingly, during his visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture back in 2017, Trump had praised the museum for its importance and the rich contributions it showcased about American heritage—an attitude that starkly contrasts with his current actions. Even within the ever-evolving role of politics, creating a singular narrative often comes at the expense of diversity and authenticity.

The Smithsonian’s Legacy

The Smithsonian Institution stands as the world’s largest museum complex, boasting 21 museums and the National Zoo. Last year alone, it welcomed nearly 17 million visitors. For over 175 years, the Smithsonian has steadfastly committed to preserving and providing a comprehensive narrative of American history, culture, science, and art. It’s hard to imagine a future where history is sanitized or corrected—especially when confronting our past can be the first step toward understanding and progression.

As developments unfold, the public is clearly ready to engage in a meaningful conversation about the implications of such a significant shift in American cultural policy. The coming weeks and months could very well determine how Americans come to understand their past, and whether the Smithsonian will maintain its vital role as a repository of diverse voices and histories.