Trump orders Smithsonian to post warnings about 'inaccurate' US history
President Donald Trump has signed an executive order requiring the Smithsonian National Museum of American History to install warning signs regarding its exhibits. The order, titled Restoring Trust in the Smithsonian Institution, claims the museum displays inaccurate depictions of American history. The Department of Interior must oversee these warning signs and provide visitors with alternative information sources. This directive follows accusations from the administration that the institution promotes political bias and anti-American sentiment.
The White House issued a statement characterizing the museum's leadership as prioritizing social justice and radical transformation over historical accuracy. Officials allege the institution uses its platform to divide the public through activism rooted in Marxism. This comes after recent congressional hearings where Republican lawmakers questioned Smithsonian director Anthea Hartig regarding the museum's educational materials and public displays.
Congressional Democrats have criticized the move as political overreach. Representative Melanie Stansbury stated that the Smithsonian belongs to the American public rather than the executive branch, arguing that the order represents an ideological attempt to reshape historical narratives. This executive order is the latest in a series of administrative actions aimed at removing diversity and inclusion programs from federal entities.
The Smithsonian Institution receives significant federal funding and operates 21 museums across the country, attracting millions of annual visitors. The administration previously issued an order in March directing the museum to remove what it categorized as divisive or anti-American ideology. The institution has yet to release a formal response to these latest requirements.