US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at removing “improper ideology” from the Smithsonian Museums and the National Zoo. This move is part of Trump’s broader effort to reshape the US government and impose his conservative views on cultural institutions.
The executive order, titled “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History,” targets what Trump calls “corrosive ideology” at the Smithsonian Institution. Specifically, the order takes issue with the National Museum of African American History and Culture’s description of hard work and the nuclear family as “aspects of ‘White Culture.'” Trump also objects to plans by the upcoming American Women’s history museum to “celebrate the exploits of male athletes participating in women’s sports.”
The Smithsonian Institution, founded in the mid-19th century, operates 21 world-renowned museums and galleries, including the National Zoo. Trump’s order puts Vice President JD Vance in charge of ensuring the Smithsonian aligns with the administration’s views.
This move is not Trump’s first foray into cultural politics. He recently took over the chairmanship of the Kennedy Center, a prominent arts venue, after complaining about its liberal leanings. Trump has also targeted the governance of Washington, D.C., seeking to increase immigration enforcement and develop a “coordinated beautification plan” for the city.
The city’s residents, overwhelmingly Democrats, have sought to maintain a conciliatory relationship with the president. However, Trump’s efforts to exert control over the city’s affairs have raised concerns, particularly given the city’s unique status as not being part of any state.
