Key Takeaways:

• President Trump signed an executive order aimed at reshaping the Smithsonian Institution.
• The order charges Vice President JD Vance with removing what Trump labels "improper ideology."
• Criticism focuses on the portrayal of American history and values in Smithsonian exhibitions.
• The Smithsonian operates 21 museums and the National Zoo, serving as a major cultural institution.
• Trump's administration is seeking to influence the narrative of American history presented in these institutions.

President Donald Trump has taken a significant step to reshape the cultural landscape in America by signing an executive order on March 27 that targets what he describes as "improper ideology" at the Smithsonian Institution. This sweeping initiative includes a reshuffling of funding and programs at this renowned complex of museums and research facilities. The executive order explicitly aims to iron out "divisive narratives" that the administration claims have infiltrated the institution, which consists of 21 museums and the National Zoo, primarily located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

The order, officially titled "Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History," places Vice President JD Vance in charge of overseeing the elimination of ideologically driven distortions. In his address, Trump lamented that Smithsonian programs have been influenced by what he calls a pervasive "race-centered ideology" and denounced perceived efforts to malign American and Western values. He stated that museums should be places of objective learning rather than platforms for ideological indoctrination, as outlined in a Newsweek article detailing the executive order.

Specific institutions within the Smithsonian were called out for purportedly promoting narratives that Trump believes undermine shared American values. These include the National Museum of African American History and Culture, which Trump accused of framing hard work and the nuclear family as aspects of "White Culture." Additionally, plans were flagged surrounding the future American Women's History Museum, which Trump believes celebrates male athletes competing in women's sports. Following these assertions, the Smithsonian has yet to provide public feedback or react formally to the order, reflecting a significant moment where cultural policy meets political maneuvering.

Along with focusing on the Smithsonian, Trump's new executive order extends its grasp towards federal parks, monuments, and memorials that he claims have been distorted or removed in recent years. This initiative is not solely about museums but also touches on a broader ideological cleanup that aligns with Trump's goal to fortify a conservative narrative surrounding American history and accomplishments.

Notably, the Smithsonian was founded in 1846, using bequeathed funds from British scientist James Smithson, with its mission being the increase and diffusion of knowledge. This effort to reframe its historical narrative comes at a critical juncture, as the institution attracts millions of visitors annually, thereby shaping public perception of American history. For more details, please refer to the New York Times for further insights.