Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
The White House is initiating a review of content across Smithsonian museums and exhibits as part of the preparations for America’s upcoming 250th anniversary celebration in 2026. This move aims to ensure that museum content reflects national values and a unified American narrative.
In a recent letter to Smithsonian Institution Secretary Lonnie Bunch III, White House officials outlined a review process designed to align the institution with President Donald Trump’s initiative to restore a sense of clarity and truth to American history. This effort comes under the banner of the “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History” executive order.
According to the letter, the initiative aims to highlight American exceptionalism while removing divisive or partisan perspectives that may currently exist within museum content. The administration emphasizes the importance of fostering confidence in our shared cultural institutions.
Focused Review of Key Museums
Phase I of this comprehensive review will target several prominent museums, including the National Museums of American History, Natural History, and African American History and Culture, among others. The National Air and Space Museum and the Smithsonian American Art Museum are also on the list, as well as the National Portrait Gallery and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden.
The review process is described by the administration as being grounded in respect for the Smithsonian’s mission and contributions. Officials note that the goal is not to disrupt daily operations but rather to promote historically accurate, inclusive representations of American heritage.
Key Focus Areas of the Review
The review will concentrate on five key areas. Firstly, it will assess both current and upcoming exhibition content across these museums. The administration seeks to ensure that all guidelines align with the original mission of the Smithsonian Institution.
Secondly, museum curators and senior staff members will be interviewed during this process to provide insights into the selection and approval workflows that guide exhibition content development.
Broad Request for Information
Beyond interviews, the administration requests that the targeted museums furnish a wide array of materials. These include digital files for current and future exhibitions, educational resources, information on external partnerships, grant documentation, and internal guidelines. This comprehensive collection of data will assist in gauging the alignment of content with Trump’s directive.
Implementation Timeline and Initial Steps
The administration has set an ambitious implementation timeline, with an initial 120-day guideline for completing the review. Nonetheless, certain aspects of this review must be acted upon within just 30 days of receiving the formal letter.
Immediate tasks include the submission of exhibition descriptions, drafts for upcoming shows, and materials related to America 250 programming. Museums will also designate a staff member to act as the primary liaison throughout the review process, which encompasses on-site visits for observational assessments.
Content Corrections and Future Vision
By the conclusion of the 120-day review period, museums are expected to make necessary changes to their content when identified. This could involve revising any language that may be deemed divisive or ideologically charged in favor of approaches that are unifying, historically accurate, and constructive.
The White House anticipates that the review process will be completed by early 2026. They characterize this initiative as a forward-looking opportunity focusing on the strengths and achievements of the American narrative.
Renewing the Smithsonian’s Cultural Role
In closing, the administration articulates a vision for renewing the Smithsonian’s role as a premier cultural institution. By emphasizing American values, principles, and progress, the effort aims to engage the public in celebrating the nation’s diverse history.
The ultimate goal is for the Smithsonian Institution to remain a vibrant, trusted source of inspiration for generations to come. This review represents a significant step in reshaping how America’s story is conveyed through its cultural institutions.
