Trump orders Smithsonian to post warnings about 'inaccurate' US history

July 25, 2026

President Trump has issued an executive order requiring warning signs to be posted outside the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, alerting visitors that certain exhibits contain what his administration considers inaccurate historical content. The order, directed at the Department of Interior, accuses museum leadership of promoting social justice ideology rather than properly celebrating America's founders during the nation's 250th anniversary. This action follows recent congressional hearings where the Smithsonian director faced Republican criticism over alleged "woke ideology" in museum displays and materials.

Who is affected

Visitors to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History (15-30 million annually across all Smithsonian museums)
Smithsonian Institution leadership, including director Anthea Hartig
The Department of Interior (tasked with implementing the order)
Democratic lawmakers who oversee the Smithsonian, including Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury
Staff and employees of the 21 Smithsonian museums in Washington, Virginia, and New York

What action is being taken

The Department of Interior is being directed to issue warning signs outside the Smithsonian National Museum of American History
The signs are being designed to direct visitors to sources of "accurate information regarding America's history"
The Trump administration is implementing orders to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion programs from federal government

Why it matters

This order represents a significant government intervention into museum curation and historical interpretation at the world's largest research museum complex. The action raises fundamental questions about government control over cultural institutions, academic freedom, and who has authority to determine historical accuracy. Since the Smithsonian is largely federally funded and serves millions of visitors annually with free admission, this directive could shape how American history is presented to the public and set precedent for political influence over educational and cultural institutions.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC