The executive order has been positioned as an effort to combat what Trump identifies as a distortion of American history. It specifically advises against funding Smithsonian exhibitions that may promote a racially divisive narrative. The president's directive notably addresses the American Women's History Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, with claims that they propagate ideologies that contradict his concept of American values.
Trump's order instructs Vice-President JD Vance, now a board member of the Smithsonian, to oversee the removal of this alleged divisive content. At the same time, the executive order aims to restore historical properties that have undergone changes deemed inappropriate in recent years and marks a renewed focus on celebrating traditional narratives leading up to the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Trump has previously positioned himself against what he calls "woke" culture, signing orders to dismantle diversity initiatives within the federal structure. His tactics have sparked significant backlash, especially from cultural figures in entertainment, reflecting the ongoing national divide over issues of race and historical representation.
With around 30 million visitors annually, the Smithsonian's approach to public education and culture in the US has now been thrust into a contentious arena, highlighting the intersection of governance and cultural narratives as this administration moves toward significant shifts in how history is presented and remembered.
Trump's order instructs Vice-President JD Vance, now a board member of the Smithsonian, to oversee the removal of this alleged divisive content. At the same time, the executive order aims to restore historical properties that have undergone changes deemed inappropriate in recent years and marks a renewed focus on celebrating traditional narratives leading up to the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Trump has previously positioned himself against what he calls "woke" culture, signing orders to dismantle diversity initiatives within the federal structure. His tactics have sparked significant backlash, especially from cultural figures in entertainment, reflecting the ongoing national divide over issues of race and historical representation.
With around 30 million visitors annually, the Smithsonian's approach to public education and culture in the US has now been thrust into a contentious arena, highlighting the intersection of governance and cultural narratives as this administration moves toward significant shifts in how history is presented and remembered.
