President Trump signed an executive order Thursday seeking to restore truth to American history through an overhaul of the Smithsonian.
The document, named “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History,” criticizes the Biden administration for introducing a period of “harmful ideology” and aims to address the “divisive, race-focused” themes at the institution.
In the past, the Smithsonian Institution was highly regarded as a representation of American excellence and a global symbol of cultural accomplishment. However, in recent times, it has been influenced by a divisive ideology centered around race. This change has led to the promotion of narratives that depict American and Western values as inherently damaging and oppressive.
The order designates Vice President JD Vance with the responsibility of supervising initiatives to eliminate inappropriate ideology from all facets of the institution. Vance is a member of the Smithsonian Institution’s Board of Regents.
https://t.co/BQy31t6E8Z
President Trump has signed an executive order aimed at restoring accurate representations of American history in educational institutions. https://t.co/BQy31t6E8Z
— Executive Order & Presidential Action News (@47_Tracker) March 27, 2025
The President notes that institutions like these – including the institution’s museums and research centers – should focus on American achievements.
It is the policy of my Administration to restore Federal sites dedicated to history, including parks and museums, to solemn and uplifting public monuments that remind Americans of our extraordinary heritage, consistent progress toward becoming a more perfect Union, and unmatched record of advancing liberty, prosperity, and human flourishing. Museums in our Nation’s capital should be places where individuals go to learn — not to be subjected to ideological indoctrination or divisive narratives that distort our shared history.
