1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

The Trump administration's attempt to force changes at the Smithsonian Institution raises grave concerns about the politicization and distortion of historical narratives and scientific facts. The executive order targeting funding for programs deemed to possess an "improper ideology" poses a direct threat to the institution's integrity and its mission of preserving and sharing knowledge. Historical truth and academic freedom must be safeguarded, not subjugated to partisan agendas that seek to rewrite history through a revisionist lens. Removing or altering exhibits, monuments, and educational programs to advance a particular ideological viewpoint is a blatant assault on intellectual discourse and the free exchange of ideas. It undermines the very principles upon which the Smithsonian was founded – to increase and diffuse knowledge through objective and rigorous inquiry. Imposing a singular, state-sanctioned narrative not only degrades the institution's credibility but also impoverishes the educational experience for millions of visitors. The executive order's implications extend far beyond the Smithsonian, signaling a broader assault on institutions dedicated to preserving and advancing human knowledge. This unprecedented overreach jeopardizes the nation's commitment to fostering an informed, critical, and discerning citizenry. Urgent action is needed to protect the Smithsonian's autonomy and ensure that its programs remain grounded in facts, research, and intellectual integrity, free from political interference or distortion.