The White House has set a deadline for the Smithsonian Institution to submit documents regarding current and upcoming exhibitions and events. This request is part of a review to determine whether the institutions' offerings express "improper ideology."
Key Details
The deadline for eight Smithsonian museums to submit documentation was Tuesday. Federal funds, part of the Smithsonian's $1 billion budget, are contingent on the institution fulfilling the terms of this request.
This directive stems from an executive order, Executive Order 14253, titled 'Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History,' issued by President Trump in March. The order stipulated the removal of "improper ideology" from museum offerings.
Review Scope and Delays
In August, the White House initiated a call for a "comprehensive internal review" of the Smithsonian museums. The first eight museums targeted for review include the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Air and Space Museum, and the National Museum of the American Indian.
The review process was reportedly slowed by a federal government shutdown and staffing changes at the Smithsonian. While some documents were submitted in September, the White House indicates no further documentation has been provided since then.
White House Stance and Smithsonian Independence
In a December letter, the White House expressed concern about the museums' role in the upcoming 250th birthday celebration of the Nation, emphasizing that they should not be "diffident about America's founding" or hesitant to convey a "positive view of American history."
According to its charter, the Smithsonian Institution's museums and research centers are intended to operate independently of the federal government. Oversight is provided by Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III and a board of regents, which includes the vice president and chief justice, alongside other members appointed by Congress.