Trump’s Executive Order Targets Smithsonian Exhibitions on Race
In a notable move, President Donald Trump has accused the Smithsonian Institution of promoting what he describes as “divisive, race-based ideology.” On Thursday, he issued an executive order mandating the cessation of federal funding for exhibitions and programs that feature racial themes deemed to divide Americans.
Overview of Executive Order
Titled “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History,” this order directs Vice President JD Vance to eliminate what the administration deems “improper ideology” from the Smithsonian’s extensive collection of 19 museums and the National Zoo located in Washington, D.C.
Restoration of Public Monuments
The order also calls for the restoration of public monuments and statues that were altered or removed, which Trump argues promotes a distorted historical narrative. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum has been tasked with reviewing all monuments, memorials, and statues that were changed or removed since January 1, 2020. This includes several monuments honoring Confederate leaders, which were removed amid the heightened racial justice movements following the death of George Floyd.
Concerns Over Historical Narrative
In this order, Trump asserts that there has been a significant effort to modify American history, replacing objective facts with ideologically driven narratives. Specific current exhibitions from the Smithsonian are cited as examples of the narrative Trump aims to challenge. One such exhibition is “The Shape of Power: Stories of Race and American Sculpture,” which analyzes the impact of sculpture on racial perceptions in the U.S.
Potential Impacts on Smithsonian Programs
While details are not fully outlined, there is uncertainty regarding how this order might affect exhibits that highlight African American history or significant figures such as Mary McLeod Bethune, who played a critical role in education for Black girls during a racially segregated era.
Controversial Exhibits Mentioned
The executive order also references a forthcoming exhibition at the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum, purportedly set to celebrate male athletes in women’s sports. This reference appears to critique the inclusion of nonbinary or transgender individuals in women’s athletics.
Implementation of New Guidelines
According to the order, Vice President Vance will collaborate with Russell Vought, director of the Office of Management and Budget, to ensure that future congressional appropriations will prohibit funding for programs that are perceived to undermine shared American values or promote division based on race.
Background and Previous Actions
This is not the first instance of an executive order from the Trump administration affecting the Smithsonian. Earlier this year, an order was issued that curbed any mention of diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, resulting in the closure of the institution’s diversity offices. Additionally, in February, Trump facilitated his appointment as chairman at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, along with dismissing board members appointed by President Biden.
Institutional Response Pending
As of now, the Smithsonian Institution, including the American Art Museum and the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum, has not publicly responded to inquiries regarding the new executive order.
