How the Smithsonian became the latest front in Trump's culture war
4 hours ago
- Trump administration targeted the Smithsonian over perceived 'woke' ideology, citing exhibits on Benjamin Franklin and slavery, a 'crotch harness' for sadomasochism, and a girl's diary expressing gender dysphoria.
- The National Museum of American History has long struggled with its identity, criticized for lacking a cohesive narrative and focusing on oppression rather than central historical figures and events.
- The 2020 racial justice protests prompted the Smithsonian to emphasize diversity, equity, and inclusion, leading to conservative backlash and accusations of ideological capture.
- Lonnie Bunch, the first Black secretary of the Smithsonian, stepped down amid stress from political pressure and threats of budget cuts.
- The battle reflects broader culture wars, with Republican lawmakers accusing the museum of partisanship and the institution's bipartisan support eroding.