White House reviewing Smithsonian exhibits
The White House just ordered a review of exhibits at the Smithsonian Institution [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E7ge73W3pls, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JWU4jAztojQ, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYzkdLZshu4]! This move signals a possible shift in how American history, science, and culture are curated for both domestic and global audiences. What specific exhibits are under review?
The review, slated to conclude in early 2026, stems from an Executive Order seeking to eliminate "improper, divisive or anti-American ideology". The White House aims to ensure exhibits reflect "unity, progress, and enduring values that define the American story". The review will initially focus on eight of the Smithsonian's 21 museums. These include the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of Natural History, and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. The National Air and Space Museum, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the National Portrait Gallery, the National Museum of the American Indian, and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden are also included. The White House has requested materials including programming related to the nation's 250th anniversary. They've also asked for catalogs and programs for all current and ongoing exhibitions. Museums are expected to start making changes within 120 days, replacing "divisive or ideologically driven language". The Smithsonian's annual budget is around $1.25 billion. Approximately two-thirds of this funding comes from annual federal appropriations. The remaining portion is sourced from the institution's endowment, private and corporate contributions, and revenue from retail and licensing. The Smithsonian was founded in 1846 with funds from British scientist James Smithson, who left his estate to the U.S. to establish an institution "for the increase and diffusion of knowledge".
