Reports suggest that the Trump administration has been critical of the way the Smithsonian Institution presents American history, particularly regarding race and racism.
Specifically: Accusations of "divisive ideology": The White House has accused the Smithsonian of being influenced by a "divisive race-centered ideology" and promoting narratives that portray American values as harmful or oppressive.
Concerns about "revisionist history": The Trump administration claims the Smithsonian is engaged in a "concerted and widespread effort to rewrite our Nation's history," according to Politico.
Review of exhibitions: The White House has ordered a review of Smithsonian museums to ensure exhibits align with its interpretation of American history, focusing on removing what they consider "divisive" narratives. This includes scrutinizing exhibits, online content, and educational materials.
Specific examples cited: The White House mentions exhibits like "The Shape of Power: Stories of Race and American Sculpture" at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, which discusses how societies have used race to maintain power systems, according to The White House (.gov). Concerns have also been raised about the National Museum of African American History and Culture's emphasis on African American history and experiences within the broader American narrative.
This stance has drawn criticism from historians and other groups concerned about censorship and the accurate portrayal of history. Critics argue that the administration's actions are an attempt to "whitewash" or "sanitize" American history, particularly regarding racism and the experiences of marginalized communities. They stress the importance of including a comprehensive and fact-based account of the past, even if it involves uncomfortable or challenging topics like slavery and systemic racism.
The Smithsonian, for its part, maintains its commitment to "scholarly excellence, rigorous research, and the accurate, factual presentation of history". The National Museum of African American History and Culture specifically aims to explore American history through the lens of the African American experience and foster a broader understanding of race and its impact on society.
AI Overview
The
Smithsonian Institution is not a federal agency, but a "trust
instrumentality" of the United States. It was established by Congress
to manage the Smithsonian's assets and carry out its educational and scientific
purposes. While not a traditional government agency, it receives
significant federal funding and is overseen by a Board of Regents with congressional
appointees.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
"Trust instrumentality": This means the Smithsonian is a unique entity created by Congress to manage a public trust (the Smithsonian's assets and mission).
Federal Oversight: The Board of Regents, which oversees the Smithsonian, includes the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, the Vice President, members of Congress, and presidential appointees.
Federal Funding: While not a traditional agency, the Smithsonian receives substantial federal funding, making up a significant portion of its budget.
No Regulatory Power: Unlike traditional federal agencies, the Smithsonian doesn't have regulatory powers over other entities; it primarily manages its own museums, research centers, and the National Zoo.
Unique
Relationship with Government: The Smithsonian is closely connected to the
federal government,
even though it's not a traditional
agency, according to legal experts at the
Library of Congress.
The Smithsonian Institution does not fall under any particular agency or department of the US government. Instead, it holds a unique position as an independent "trust instrumentality" of the United States, established by Congress in 1846.
It operates with a degree of autonomy, governed by a Board of Regents that includes members from all three branches of government:
Chief Justice of the United States: Serves as the Chancellor (presiding officer).
Vice President of the United States: Serves as an ex officio member.
Members of Congress: Three Senators appointed by the President pro tempore of the Senate and three Representatives appointed by the Speaker of the House.
Nine Citizens: Appointed by joint resolution of Congress.
While the
Smithsonian is not an executive branch agency, it does receive significant
federal funding, accounting for approximately two-thirds of its budget. Its
unique structure means it doesn't exercise regulatory powers (except over its
own buildings and grounds) and is not subject to certain federal laws governing
other agencies, like the Freedom of Information Act. However, it is considered
so "closely connected" to the federal government that it shares the
immunity of the United States from state and local regulation.
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Comments
Once again, Congress is caught with their pants down.
Norb Leahy, Dunwoody GA Tea Party Leader
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