On Thursday, Donald Trump announced his plans to reform the Smithsonian Institution through an executive order aimed at reallocating funds away from programs associated with “divisive narratives” and what he described as “improper ideology”.
The president asserted that there has been a “concerted and widespread” initiative over the last ten years to alter US history by substituting “objective facts” with a “skewed narrative propelled by ideology instead of truth”.
He signed an executive order designating JD Vance to lead efforts to “eliminate improper ideology” from the Smithsonian Institution, which encompasses its museums, educational and research facilities, as well as the National Zoo.
Trump’s executive order specifically identifies the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the Women’s History Museum, which is currently under development.
“Museums located in our Nation’s capital should serve as venues for learning – not as sites for ideological indoctrination or divisive narratives that misrepresent our collective history,” the order stated.
Representatives from the Smithsonian did not promptly respond to a request for comment sent via email.
The Smithsonian Institution holds the title of the largest museum, education, and research complex in the world, comprising 21 museums and the National Zoo, with eleven museums situated along the National Mall in Washington.
Founded with the estate of James Smithson, a British scientist who bequeathed his wealth to the United States to establish “at Washington, under the name of the Smithsonian Institution, an establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge”.
On the same day, Trump also established the “DC Safe and Beautiful Task Force” through an executive order, with Stephen Miller, the US homeland security adviser, appointed as its chair.
According to the order, this task force will work closely with local authorities on matters such as enforcing federal immigration laws, which includes deporting individuals living unlawfully in the city, enhancing law enforcement presence, and expediting the processing of applications for concealed weapon permits while also reducing costs.
The order additionally emphasizes the removal of graffiti and other initiatives to beautify the city.
Trump has frequently expressed his ambitions to enhance both the safety and aesthetics of the city.
