The Smithsonian has reaffirmed its commitment to scholarly excellence and factual history, stating it is reviewing the directives and will work constructively with government stakeholders.

This move has sparked strong reactions, with critics condemning it as an attempt to impose political ideology on independent cultural institutions, while supporters see it as a step toward national unity and traditional American values.

The initiative seeks to promote American exceptionalism, restore confidence in cultural institutions, and counteract what critics see as a long-standing effort to rewrite history with ideological biases.

President Donald Trump has ordered a comprehensive review of Smithsonian Museums in preparation for the United States' 250th anniversary in 2026, aiming to align exhibits with American ideals and history.

The review process includes a focus on exhibits like the upcoming Latino Museum's 'Presente! A Latino History of the United States,' which some critics say emphasizes themes of colonial theft and downplays authoritarian figures.

The White House announced that this review will focus on ensuring exhibits reflect American values, avoiding divisive or partisan narratives, and will scrutinize social media, exhibit text, and educational materials across key museums.

Trump has called for a 'fair' representation of U.S. history, criticizing current exhibits for promoting progressive themes, gender ideology, and narratives that some perceive as biased or divisive.

This effort follows an executive order signed in March, which aimed to end federal funding to the Smithsonian over concerns that its exhibits promote race-centered ideology and portray American and Western values negatively.

The review targets eight major Smithsonian museums, including the National Museum of American History and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, requiring them to submit exhibit materials within 30 days and implement corrections within 120 days if necessary.

Critics argue that current exhibits incorporate progressive themes, such as LGBTQ narratives and social justice issues, which Trump officials believe distort American history and promote divisive ideologies.

Supporters view the review as a necessary correction to past controversies, including exhibits that linked 'White culture' to negative traits and efforts to include controversial themes like transgender identity.

White House officials, including Stephen Miller, have accused the Smithsonian of being influenced by left-wing activists and have called for a restoration of patriotic content in museums.