Major museums are prioritizing the promotion of climate change over the traditional American spirit, stirring debate and criticism.
The Smithsonian Institution, one of the world's largest museum and research complexes, is currently undergoing a sweeping review of all content across its 21 museums and zoo to eliminate political bias. This move comes following President Donald Trump's March 2025 executive order, which called for the removal of what he described as "improper, divisive, or anti-American ideology" and the restoration of exhibits that emphasize "American and Western values" [1][2].
This review was initiated after a closed-door Board of Regents meeting on June 9, 2025, where the board agreed under pressure from Vice President JD Vance and Representative Carlos Gimenez to conduct a thorough and expedited assessment of museum content. The Board directed Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch to assess the exhibits and personnel for bias and to report back on progress and recommendations for next steps [2].
Secretary Bunch has urged staff to improve in areas of scholarship, even-handedness, and nonpartisanship while affirming the Smithsonian as a place meant to inspire, challenge, and welcome visitors. The Smithsonian has also emphasized its institutional independence, particularly regarding personnel matters [3].
As the nation prepares for its Semiquincentennial in 2026, with more than 30 million visitors expected in Washington, D.C., there is increased pressure to present history in a way that celebrates the nation's founding without political bias [1].
Meanwhile, at the Chrysler Museum of Art in Norfolk, Virginia, an exhibit titled "Jamestown is Sinking" is currently on display. This exhibit explores the relationship between climate change, colonialism, and capitalism in Virginia's Tidewater region [4]. Erik H. Neil, the Macon and Joan Brock Director at the Chrysler Museum, defends the exhibit, stating that it contributes meaningfully to civic discourse and fosters creativity and thoughtful dialogue.
At the Hirshhorn Museum, a children's book titled "My Own Way: Celebrating Gender Freedom For Kids" was available for children. The book, which encourages self-expression and gender fluidity, has sparked controversy among some visitors [5].
Elsewhere, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History features an exhibit on climate change, stating, "Since the last ice age, Earth's climate has warmed. But now that warming is getting faster because of us" [6]. Greta Pratt, the artist behind the exhibit, is a local artist and a recent recipient of a Guggenheim Fellowship.
In a separate development, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis called for 'alternative accreditation' in the higher education system during a press conference at Florida Atlantic University's campus [7].
The Ancient Ten Commandments fragment of a 2,000-year-old manuscript will go on display at the Reagan Library [8]. The exhibit, a significant historical artifact, is expected to attract a large number of visitors.
As the review process continues, the Smithsonian Institution remains committed to its mission of education and research, striving to present content that is both informative and unbiased.
[1] Wall Street Journal, "Smithsonian to Review Exhibits for Political Bias," March 2025. [2] Washington Post, "Smithsonian to Review Exhibits for Political Bias Following Executive Order," March 2025. [3] Smithsonian, "Smithsonian Secretary Urges Staff to Improve Diversity and Inclusion," April 2025. [4] Chrysler Museum of Art, "Jamestown is Sinking" Exhibit Information. [5] Washington Times, "Controversial Children's Book Sparks Debate at Hirshhorn Museum," May 2025. [6] Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, "Climate Change Exhibit Information." [7] Florida Politics, "DeSantis Calls for 'Alternative Accreditation' in Higher Education," June 2025. [8] Reagan Library, "Ancient Ten Commandments Fragment to be Displayed," July 2025.
- The Smithsonian Institution is striving to present content that is both informative and unbiased, as it continues its review of museum content to eliminate political bias, following President Donald Trump's executive order.
- Meanwhile, at the Chrysler Museum of Art in Norfolk, Virginia, an exhibit titled "Jamestown is Sinking" explores the relationship between climate change, colonialism, and capitalism, contributing meaningfully to civic discourse and fostering creativity and thoughtful dialogue.
- On the other hand, a children's book titled "My Own Way: Celebrating Gender Freedom For Kids" at the Hirshhorn Museum has sparked controversy among some visitors, encouraging self-expression and gender fluidity.
- Elsewhere, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History features an exhibit on climate change, stating that since the last ice age, Earth's climate has warmed due to human activities, focusing on education and self-development regarding environmental issues.
