Trump targets 'anti-American ideology' at Smithsonian museums

US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order targeting the Smithsonian Institution. This institution operates over 20 museums and research centers in Washington DC and New York City. Millions of visitors go to these sites each year.

The order instructs the vice president to remove "improper, divisive, or anti-American ideology" from the museums and the National Zoo in Washington. It also directs the interior secretary to restore federal properties like parks, memorials, and statues. These properties have been "improperly removed or changed" in the last five years.

This action is part of Trump's effort to influence American culture alongside politics. The order is titled "Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History." Vice-President JD Vance will lead this initiative as a member of the Smithsonian Board of Regents.

Trump's order states that Congress should not fund Smithsonian exhibits that "divide Americans by race." It claims that the American Women's History Museum plans to "recognize men as women."

The order also criticizes the National Museum of African American History and Culture. It states that this museum claims "hard work," "individualism," and "the nuclear family" are aspects of "White culture." This museum opened in 2016 as former President Barack Obama was leaving office.

The Smithsonian museums offer free entry to 15 to 30 million visitors each year. They include notable sites like the National Museum of American History, National Portrait Gallery, and more than a dozen others.

Additionally, the order instructs Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum to complete restorations at Independence Hall in Philadelphia. This comes ahead of the 250th anniversary of signing the Declaration of Independence there.

Trump aims to reshape American culture, which he believes has been tainted by left-wing ideology. He has signed several orders targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion programs within the federal government. Some of these actions have faced legal challenges.

Shortly after taking office, Trump dismissed the board of the John F Kennedy Center for Performing Arts in Washington DC. He appointed himself as chairman, leading to criticism from actors and directors who canceled performances in response.