President Donald Trump has ordered his administration to install signs outside the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History, directing visitors to information he deems more accurate about the nation's past. The move follows a White House report that criticized the Smithsonian's historical presentations as not being "inspiring, unifying, and worthy of our great republic."
The executive order targets sidewalks maintained by the National Park Service, bypassing the Smithsonian's independent operational structure. The signs will reference the White House report and guide visitors to resources for "accurate information regarding America’s history." The order also calls for a temporary exhibit to correct what Trump considers inaccurate information.
Smithsonian officials have not yet responded to a request for comment. However, Anthea M. Hartig, director of the American history museum, previously stated during congressional hearings that the White House report does not accurately represent the museum's work. She acknowledged that there is always room for improvement but defended the expertise and content within the museum's collections, exhibits, and programming.
The Smithsonian operates independently of the executive branch, with museum directors reporting to Secretary Lonnie Bunch, who is overseen by a Board of Regents. Trump's directive is part of a broader effort to influence cultural institutions he believes do not align with conservative viewpoints. Previously, Trump sought to alter programming at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and influenced historical site interpretations in Philadelphia, where critics argued that newly installed panels downplayed the history of slavery at President George Washington's home.
Trump first signaled his intention to influence the Smithsonian in March with an executive order aimed at defunding programs that promoted "divisive narratives" and "improper ideology."