Smithsonian Museum Faces Criticism Over Shift to Activism
Host Laura Ingraham from “The Ingraham Angle” discusses how progressive curators at the Smithsonian Institution are reinterpreting American history through exhibits that reflect a radical perspective. Historian Dr. Jody Edward Ginn points out the significant exclusion of conservative viewpoints, highlighting that the new displays feature three times more liberal items than those representing conservative ideas. This shift raises worries about the increasing politicization of the national museums in the U.S.
As the Smithsonian endures scrutiny regarding its left-leaning approach, a visit to the National Museum of American History reveals exhibits that present the nation’s history largely through the experiences of marginalized groups.
A particularly notable part of the museum is the Entertainment Nation exhibit, which centers on themes of sports, television, and music, becoming a focal point for discussions around “woke” history.
Among the displays is one that highlights the 2010 “Los Suns” protests, featuring jerseys worn by the Phoenix Suns players during the demonstrations.
The exhibit placard explains, “In solidarity with the Latino community, the Phoenix Suns basketball team challenges Arizona’s new immigration law on the court.” It goes on to describe Arizona’s law, which empowered police to question individuals about their immigration status, allegedly targeting people of color.
Another display showcases a mannequin wearing a hijab, representing the first Muslim woman to win a major ice skating event while donning religious attire.
Additionally, a connection is drawn between the 2014 movie “X-Men” and the emergence of the Black Lives Matter movement that same summer, with the placard noting, “When #BlackLivesMatter went viral in the summer of 2014, one of the first Black female superheroes was on screen fighting discrimination.”
The film features a protagonist who faces discrimination due to her uniqueness, with costumes worn by actress Halle Berry on display as part of this narrative.
The exhibit also celebrates the television series “Glee,” which aired for eight seasons and is credited with promoting art and humanity. The placard describes the show as depicting a diverse high school glee club that united students from various backgrounds, ultimately rallying together while navigating personal identities and relationships.
Another exhibit delves into the achievements of NBA legend Bill Russell, not just as a player, but in his role as a racial activist. The placard notes his groundbreaking contributions both on the court and in civil rights, including organizing a protest against racial discrimination with his teammates in the early 1960s.
Other items on display include chains symbolizing slavery, apparel worn by rapper Nipsey Hussle, who was affiliated with the Rollin’ 60s Crips gang and known for his lyrics centered on violence and drugs. A placard mentions Hussle’s political impact alongside his musical career.
Also showcased are a jersey from Jason Collins, the first openly gay active NBA player, and a hat worn by Dr. Anthony Fauci during a ceremonial first pitch at a baseball game following the COVID-19 shutdown, along with a skateboard representing the challenges faced by female skateboarders in a male-dominated arena.
Fox News Digital has reached out to the Smithsonian Institution for further comments.
