The Trump administration has threatened to withdraw support from the Smithsonian Institution, alleging evidence of violations of federal nondiscrimination laws and a potentially hostile work environment. A letter sent jointly by the Department of the Interior (DOI) and the White House to the Smithsonian leadership stated that institutional culture may have led to practices classifying individuals and allocating benefits based on race, ethnicity, and other protected characteristics.
The administration's action follows accusations from conservative figures, including President Donald Trump, who have criticized the Smithsonian for what they describe as a "woke" and "activist agenda" shaping its presentation of American history. These critics argue that exhibits and educational materials promote a divisive narrative and exclude certain historical perspectives.
While the letter did not provide specific evidence of illegal activity, a Fox News Digital investigation reportedly found that many leading figures at the Smithsonian involved in hiring have advocated for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The Trump administration has previously characterized such DEI efforts as racially discriminatory.
In response to conservative criticisms, Smithsonian's National Museum of American History Director Anthea Hartig stated in a congressional hearing that "the museum does not take sides in America’s political debates. We preserve and document the evidence of American life in all of its breadth, so that the public can encounter the past and draw their own conclusions."
Unless the Smithsonian addresses the alleged bias and civil rights violations, the administration indicated it would consider pulling support beyond the institution's approximately $1 billion in annual federal funding. Such actions could include ceasing to loan artifacts for exhibits, enabling procurement processes, and making discretionary grants.
The DOI has requested a meeting with Smithsonian representatives to discuss the allegations. The institution operates independently but is overseen by a board of regents, some of whom are appointed through congressional resolutions signed by the president. There are four upcoming vacancies on the board, a factor the administration may seek to leverage.
The Smithsonian Institution declined to comment on the letter when reached by Fox News Digital.