The Smithsonian Institution is accused of promoting Marxist ideologies and anti-American sentiments, according to a New York Post column. The institution, described as the world's largest and most influential museum, allegedly teaches "self-loathing anti-American woke propaganda" to its millions of annual visitors and students.
These accusations include claims that concepts such as "politeness," "punctuality," "objectivity," and "hard work" are presented as characteristics of white supremacy. The institution has also reportedly been criticized for exhibits that frame historical figures like Benjamin Franklin as slave owners and Christopher Columbus as a racist, while simultaneously featuring exhibits on transgenderism and sadomasochism. There is also a reported claim that illegal migrants deserve the right to vote.
During a congressional hearing, Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch was criticized for his response to the 2020 Black Lives Matter riots, where curators reportedly collected debris as "historical artifacts." The column argues that the Smithsonian, with a significant portion of its $1.3 billion annual budget funded by taxpayers, is indoctrinating visitors with a negative view of American history.
Anthea Hartig, the head of the Smithsonian, faced questioning from Rep. Brandon Gill, who challenged her on specific exhibit content and institutional interpretations. When asked about Mickey Mouse, Hartig reportedly acknowledged that the character, as presented in one exhibit, has "certain obvious racial overtones" and is "rooted in minstrelsy." She also reportedly struggled to define politeness and objectivity as distinct from white supremacy culture, in response to questions referencing materials like the MASS Action Toolkit, which the Smithsonian has used for staff development.
Critics argue that the institution has shifted from its founding mission, established by James Smithson's bequest for the "increase and diffusion of knowledge among men," and expanded under President Lyndon Johnson to focus on American achievement. The column contends that under current leadership, the Smithsonian promotes a narrative that is fundamentally opposed to an honest portrayal of American history, focusing instead on themes of race, identity, gender, climate change, and economic inequality. A 2020 White House report is cited as previously criticizing the Smithsonian for being captured by a "radical, activist ideology."