1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

The executive order aims to undermine the independence and integrity of the Smithsonian Institution, a renowned cultural and educational organization. Attempts to ban exhibits or programs deemed "divisive" or inconsistent with certain values pose a dangerous threat to free expression and open discourse. The Smithsonian has a responsibility to present diverse perspectives, confront difficult aspects of history, and foster critical thinking - not whitewash the past or promote a singular nationalist narrative. Compromising its autonomy by installing political appointees and subjecting its content to ideological vetting would severely damage the Smithsonian's credibility and betray its mission. Rather than being reformed, the institution must be protected from government overreach and allowed to continue its vital work educating the public through comprehensive, fact-based exhibits and programming.