Protect Smithsonian Independence from Political Interference

The Administration’s Ideological Review The Trump administration has launched a sweeping review of the Smithsonian Institution - America’s leading cultural institution - to remove “divisive or ideologically driven” content. Executive Order 14253 - “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History” - orders exhibits labeled “improper ideology” to be purged, especially on race, gender, and politically sensitive events. Early Actions Undermining Exhibit Integrity Eight museums were told to submit scripts and materials within 30 days and implement changes within 120. References to President Trump’s impeachments in “The American Presidency” were temporarily removed, then restored with softened language and no mention of January 6 - a sign of political pressure on curators. Alarming Resemblance to Thought Police These moves resemble a government “thought police” - deciding which ideas the public may see and which truths must be muted. Such intrusion is incompatible with honest, evidence based history. Cultural Integrity at Risk Founded in 1846 to “increase and diffuse knowledge,” the Smithsonian was meant to stay free from partisan control. Its credibility rests on accurate, inclusive history. When political actors override curators, scholarship suffers and public trust erodes. Questionable Legal Authority The administration’s authority to dictate exhibit content is doubtful. The Smithsonian is a trust instrumentality of the United States, governed by a Board of Regents and funded through Congressional appropriations - not a standard executive agency. Direct White House control may exceed constitutional limits, raise First Amendment concerns, and violate separation of powers. A Clear Plan to Safeguard the Smithsonian Congress must act now: • Speak Out Publicly - Reaffirm support for a nonpartisan mission and reject censorship. • Enact Legal Protections - Insulate curatorial work from executive interference and require transparent review. • Hold Oversight Hearings - Examine scope, motives, and constitutional issues with testimony from Smithsonian leaders and experts. Why Immediate Action Is Essential With the 250th anniversary of our country approaching in 2026, the Smithsonian will shape how millions understand our story. This review is not routine - it is an effort to rewrite history. Swift action can keep a trusted guardian from becoming a vehicle for partisan narrative.