What A Day The Smithsonian Gets The Trump Edit
11 snips
Aug 21, 2025 Zachary Small, a New York Times reporter specializing in the art world, discusses a controversial reevaluation of narratives in cultural institutions like the Smithsonian. He reveals pressures to emphasize American exceptionalism and downplay historical topics such as slavery. The conversation dives into fears among staff regarding ideological shifts that may turn these institutions into partisan entities, impacting how history is presented to the public. Small’s insights illuminate the complex intersection of politics and culture in America today.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
White House Targets Smithsonian Narrative
- The White House ordered a review to make Smithsonian exhibits celebrate "American exceptionalism" and remove "divisive or partisan narratives."
- Lindsey Halligan drove the push after visiting the museums and complaining about an "overemphasis on slavery."
Which Federal Cultural Institutions Are In Play
- The federal cultural targets include the Smithsonian, National Zoo, Kennedy Center, and the National Endowment for the Arts.
- The U.S. gives relatively little federal funding to culture, but these institutions still matter where the federal government is involved.
Aide Brought Smithsonian Complaint To Trump
- Lindsay Halligan personally visited the Smithsonian, disliked what she saw, and brought complaints to President Trump.
- Trump approved her drafting an executive order to push reforms at the institution.