The White House Domestic Policy Council has prepared a 162-page document, set to be released on Independence Day, titled “The Story of Saving America.” This report claims to unveil the extreme political activism present in the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, overseen by Director Anthea Hartig.
This report details instances of what it calls “extreme political activism,” including an interpretation of Mickey Mouse as a figure of “blackface” and a toolkit that describes objectivity and individualism as oppressive traits tied to “whiteness.” The overall conclusion is that under current leadership, the museum “cannot be trusted to honestly tell America’s story.”
One notable quote from the report states, “The history of the United States has been taught as the history of white Christians who conquered the continent.”
The council’s findings have apparently caused some confusion at the Smithsonian and beyond.
Lonnie Bunch III, the Director of the Smithsonian Institution, responded to the report in a letter to all staff, insisting that it does not accurately portray the museum’s work. He emphasized that “The Smithsonian Institution is the glue that holds our nation together,” asserting that their research is founded on scholarship and a commitment to portraying the full story of America.
Bunch expressed gratitude toward the activists in the museum, stating, “Each day, we tell America’s story with respect and sincerity, and we remain committed to our mission for future generations.”
A few days later, a spokesperson reiterated Bunch’s points, stating that the Smithsonian has provided independent scholarship for over 180 years and will continue to do so.
Additionally, the American Historians Organization expressed strong disapproval of the White House report, labeling it an instance of executive overreach and an attempt to pressure the Smithsonian’s leadership into aligning with a specific political agenda. They argued the report presents a distorted view of American history as a straightforward narrative of victory.
Some historians worry that an emphasis on American exceptionalism could marginalize the contributions of women, workers, people of color, and others, leading to a simplified and less representative portrayal of history.
Marc Stein, a historian and activist, criticized the report, arguing that it distorts the views of Director Hartig, who has advocated for innovative and inclusive museum programs. He labeled this report a “declaration of independence from history.” Stein also pointed out the report’s representation of history as a tool for social justice, aiming to move beyond an “America first” perspective, while also suggesting a bias against various identities and socio-political movements.
According to the report, the museum promotes educational materials that present several controversial perspectives. For instance, it instructs teachers to communicate that America is a diverse tapestry rather than a monolithic culture and critiques individualism and objectivity as traits of a “white supremacist culture.” Exhibits are highlighted that discuss current social justice issues, controversial figures, and perspectives on the foundational narratives of the country.
Despite the backlash from various factions, some conservatives have welcomed the report, considering it a revelation of the ideological biases affecting the museum’s presentation of history. New York Representative Claudia Tenney tweeted her alarm over the Smithsonian’s embrace of a politicized viewpoint. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Senator Jim Banks echoed concerns regarding the politicization of history, with Banks even proposing legislation to eliminate such biases within Smithsonian institutions.
