Concerns Over Explicit Content in Smithsonian Exhibits
A recent report from the White House Domestic Policy Council has raised alarms about explicit material in family-oriented exhibits at the Smithsonian Institution, located near the Capitol.
This 162-page report, released around July 4th, scrutinizes the display of gender ideology in America’s family museums, notably the Smithsonian National Museum of American History (NMAH).
The report asserts, “Our central finding is that museums do not merely correct past oversights or broaden historical narratives. Instead, museum leaders seem to have adopted an ideological stance that views America’s story as a political instrument rather than a shared heritage meant to be celebrated.” It implies that this approach could create division and weaken national morale.
Another exhibit, “Illegal to be You: Gay History Beyond Stonewall,” showcased a sadomasochistic “crotch harness,” and “We Belong Here” included a “chest binder” from skateboarder Leo Baker, who identifies as trans non-binary.
According to a post, among the displays aimed at families was a diary page from a six-year-old girl expressing wishes for her body to change.
The report also noted that the “Girlhood (It’s Complicated)” exhibit featured diary entries from a young girl named Jennifer, who hoped for physical changes. The report indicates that the exhibit omits the fact that Jennifer identified as a girl.
It found that NMAH’s materials present gender as a fluid concept, often categorizing biological males as girls or women while integrating modern advocacy of transgender issues in discussions about women’s history and childhood development.
The museum’s “Becoming US” educational initiative reportedly does not define what a biological woman is, mentioning that “a child may feel like a girl some days, a boy other days, or may not align with either term.” The glossary suggests asking gender-fluid individuals for their preferred pronouns.
NMAH Director Anthea Hartig has pivoted to discussions on reproductive rights, suggesting in a 2024 address that lack of federal protection for these rights would result in an unjust future.
In past remarks, Hartig spoke of a need to reshape narratives in American history. She acknowledged her historical advantages tied to her race and background in public discussions.
After President Donald Trump’s 2025 order addressing historical representation, the report criticized NMAH’s current leadership under Hartig, stating that museums should honor traditional narratives of freedom. The implication is that current exhibits do not fulfill this aim.
Vince Haley from the Domestic Policy Council emphasized that no one wishes for the Smithsonian’s reputation to shift toward ideological promotion. He expressed hope that the institution would maintain its mission to tell America’s story accurately for future generations.
A spokesperson for the Smithsonian responded, emphasizing its long-standing commitment to providing unbiased, scholarly content for the public.
