In a bold move to redefine American values, President Trump has signed an executive order to root out what he deems "improper" or "divisive" ideologies from Smithsonian institutions. The directive aims to influence the narrative within the nation's museums, ensuring adherence to what Trump perceives as an authentic representation of American history and culture.
Trump's Executive Order Targets American Ideological 'Purity' at Smithsonian
Trump's Executive Order Targets American Ideological 'Purity' at Smithsonian
President Donald Trump aims to reshape cultural narratives through Smithsonian reforms.
In a significant shift, President Donald Trump has introduced an executive order aimed at the Smithsonian Institution, a collective of over 20 museums and research centers spanning Washington DC and New York City. The order’s intent is to eradicate what Trump labels as "improper, divisive, or anti-American ideology" from these prominent cultural institutions.
The directive mandates Vice President JD Vance, who is also a member of the Smithsonian Board of Regents, to take charge of ensuring the museums adhere to a specified ideological framework while promoting a version of history aligned with Trump's vision. The title of the order, "Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History," reflects a clear intent to eliminate elements perceived as racially divisive from exhibits and programs.
Among the specific targets of the order are ongoing projects like the American Women's History Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. The order critiques the development of the women's museum for supposedly recognizing men as women and indicates disdain for perspectives presented at the African American history museum that attribute values like "hard work" and "individualism" to "White culture."
Additionally, Trump's order emphasizes the necessity for federal funds to avoid supporting Smithsonian initiatives that may foster divisions among Americans based on race. The executive action also tasks Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum with overseeing restorations of national landmarks, including Philadelphia's Independence Hall, in anticipation of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
This executive order aligns with Trump's broader agenda to reshape American culture, often decrying what he refers to as "woke" ideology influences permeating various institutions. This latest initiative comes on the heels of his previous actions targeting diversity and inclusion programs across the federal landscape, which have often met with resistance and opposition.
As these changes unfold, they raise important questions about the future of American cultural institutions and the narratives they promote, as well as reflecting a continued national conversation about identity and interpretation of history.
The directive mandates Vice President JD Vance, who is also a member of the Smithsonian Board of Regents, to take charge of ensuring the museums adhere to a specified ideological framework while promoting a version of history aligned with Trump's vision. The title of the order, "Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History," reflects a clear intent to eliminate elements perceived as racially divisive from exhibits and programs.
Among the specific targets of the order are ongoing projects like the American Women's History Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. The order critiques the development of the women's museum for supposedly recognizing men as women and indicates disdain for perspectives presented at the African American history museum that attribute values like "hard work" and "individualism" to "White culture."
Additionally, Trump's order emphasizes the necessity for federal funds to avoid supporting Smithsonian initiatives that may foster divisions among Americans based on race. The executive action also tasks Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum with overseeing restorations of national landmarks, including Philadelphia's Independence Hall, in anticipation of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
This executive order aligns with Trump's broader agenda to reshape American culture, often decrying what he refers to as "woke" ideology influences permeating various institutions. This latest initiative comes on the heels of his previous actions targeting diversity and inclusion programs across the federal landscape, which have often met with resistance and opposition.
As these changes unfold, they raise important questions about the future of American cultural institutions and the narratives they promote, as well as reflecting a continued national conversation about identity and interpretation of history.
