Examining Controversies at the Smithsonian: A Closer Look at Historical Narratives

In the last few weeks, the Trump administration has turned its sights on the Smithsonian, the latest target in a campaign to remake cultural institutions in its image.

Officials are trying to change exhibits at the center of the country’s culture wars and reshape American history at one of the largest museum complexes in the world.

Robin Pogrebin, who covers cultural institutions for The Times, discusses the clash over who gets to tell the American story.

Guest: Robin Pogrebin, a New York Times culture reporter who covers cultural institutions, the art world and architecture.

Background reading: 

• The White House announced a comprehensive review of Smithsonian exhibitions.
• The Trump administration’s plan to, in effect, audit the content of Smithsonian museums drew criticism from groups that represent scholars and promote free speech.

For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. 

Photo: Mark Schiefelbein/Associated Press

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