The Trump Smithsonian controversy escalated this week as former President Donald Trump publicly criticized the Smithsonian Institution’s focus on slavery, asserting that museums should portray America’s achievements instead of centering on its darkest chapters[1]. This stance, delivered through social media and public statements on August 19th, 2025, has drawn national attention and stirred debate about the future direction of the country’s premier national museums.
In his latest remarks, Trump stated, “The Smithsonian is OUT OF CONTROL, where everything discussed is how horrible our Country is, how bad Slavery was, and how unaccomplished the downtrodden have been—Nothing about Success, nothing about Brightness, nothing about the Future”[1]. He revealed that White House lawyers have been tasked with reviewing all Smithsonian exhibits. Trump’s goal is to identify what he calls “woke” presentations, especially those he believes dwell excessively on the cruelties and injustices of slavery[1][3].
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The Roots of the Trump Smithsonian Review
The White House, acting on Trump’s directives, dispatched a letter to Secretary Lonnie Bunch of the Smithsonian, outlining a wide-ranging review of Smithsonian museums and their operations ahead of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026. This review aims to ensure exhibitions “reflect the unity, progress, and enduring values that define the American story”[1]. According to sources, the administration wants to shift focus toward what Trump describes as America’s “brightness”—its successes, innovations, and growth.
Reportedly, this scrutiny comes just months after the Smithsonian removed references to Trump’s two impeachments from exhibit materials. Trump has argued for a “fair” telling of U.S. history, stating, “We want the museums to talk about the history of our country in a fair manner, not in a woke manner or in a racist manner, which is what many of them — not all of them, but many of them — are doing”[2].
Reactions and Implications
The Smithsonian itself has declined public comment on Trump’s actions, leaving academic and political figures to voice concerns. Harvard historian Dr. Annette Gordon-Reed labeled the move a “whitewashing of history,” warning that revising or minimizing the museum’s coverage of slavery could distort public understanding and “erase the experiences of millions of Americans”[2].
Current exhibits at the National Museum of American History and the National Museum of African American History and Culture prominently feature information and artifacts related to slavery, segregation, and the civil rights movement[1]. Trump’s review intends to examine whether such displays are “divisive or anti-American”[2].
What’s Changing at the Smithsonian?
Trump’s executive order, signed in March, directed officials to eliminate museum content he described as “improper, divisive, or anti-American”[2]. At present, teams are conducting evaluations of exhibits, though no major changes have yet been announced.
Key goals of the Trump Smithsonian review:
- Shift the narrative to emphasize U.S. achievements
- Reduce museum focus on slavery and racial injustice
- Ensure presentations are “patriotic” and “enlightening”
- Prepare for America’s 250th anniversary in 2026
What could visitors expect?
- More displays highlighting technological, cultural, and economic milestones
- Possible reduction or reframing of slavery-related exhibitions
- New emphasis on “unity, progress, and enduring values”
Public Debate and Museum Responsibility
The Trump Smithsonian review has reignited debate about how museums should balance honest reflection on national tragedies against celebration of accomplishments. Supporters of Trump’s approach argue museums must help foster national pride. Critics suggest avoiding difficult history risks eroding understanding and accountability.
Museum experts caution that the mission of the Smithsonian, as a public trust, includes educating visitors on all aspects of American history—both triumphs and tragedies[2]. Legislative and advocacy groups have pledged to monitor the review process and defend comprehensive historical narratives.
Looking Forward
As the Trump Smithsonian initiative unfolds, the nation is watching closely. Its outcome may determine not only the content found in the Smithsonian but influence museum practices across the country.
Do you think museums should change their focus? Share your thoughts below and join the conversation.