The White House has released a 162-page report criticizing the Smithsonian Institution, accusing it of promoting “extreme political activism” and presenting what it described as a radical interpretation of American history.
The report singles out the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, stating that its leadership has moved away from teaching a shared national story in favor of a divisive ideological framework.
A Smithsonian Institution spokesperson responded that the organization remains committed to impartial learning and to providing educational experiences for all visitors.
The report’s claims
According to the report, the Smithsonian’s approach reflects a departure from what the White House characterized as a unified account of the nation’s past.
The document frames the criticism around the museum’s presentation of American history, asserting that political activism has influenced its curatorial direction.
The White House stated that the report focuses specifically on the National Museum of American History and its leadership.
Background
The Smithsonian Institution is a group of museums, education centers and research facilities established by the United States government in 1846. It operates more than a dozen museums, most of them located in Washington.
The National Museum of American History, one of the Smithsonian’s most visited institutions, holds collections documenting the nation’s political, cultural, scientific and military history.
The Smithsonian receives a substantial portion of its funding from the federal government, with additional support from private sources.
Response
The Smithsonian spokesperson’s statement did not address the report’s specific claims point by point, instead emphasizing the institution’s stated commitment to impartial education.
The White House report did not detail what changes, if any, it seeks from the institution.