The Smithsonian Institution is getting a makeover, and it might just make history buffs and patriots do a little happy dance. Lindsey Halligan, a special assistant to the president, is leading this ambitious effort to ensure that the exhibits at the Smithsonian reflect a more positive and patriotic view of America. It’s a task big enough to make anyone reach for a cup of coffee. After all, with so much history to sift through, Halligan is on a mission to ensure that what the public sees doesn’t lean one way or the other on the political spectrum.
Recently, the White House reached out to the leadership at the Smithsonian with a request to review all current exhibits. This wasn’t just a casual “Hello!” though; it was a request for a thorough examination to make sure that no exhibits are pushing any political or ideological narratives. Halligan held a productive meeting with Smithsonian leaders, paving the way for a collaborative effort. This initiative is part of a broader goal to make our nation’s capital not just beautiful, but also reflective of the values that many Americans hold dear.
According to a statement from the White House, the aim here is to emphasize American exceptionalism—yes, that’s right! The goal is to step away from divisive narratives and restore confidence in cultural institutions that many people view as cornerstones of education. Halligan emphasized that the hope is not to interfere with the daily operations of curators and staff, but to support a vision that celebrates America’s heritage in a way that aligns with what most Americans believe.
For instance, a recent example of what isn’t sitting well with the administration is an exhibit in the American History Museum. The “Change Your Game” exhibit features Lia Thomas, a biological male swimmer competing in women’s sports, and stirs up controversy by questioning whether gender testing is fair. This outreach is backed by the belief that the exhibits should reflect the views of the majority of Americans, many of whom believe that biological males competing against women carries issues of equity in sports.
The overall sentiment is clear: Halligan, the White House, and many Americans want a Smithsonian Institution that celebrates the country’s achievements and reflects unity instead of division. With over 70% of the Smithsonian’s funding coming from taxpayers, Halligan believes it’s crucial that these institutions convey what the majority of Americans truly value. After all, isn’t the beauty of America to celebrate our shared ideals and history?
In short, the Smithsonian’s revamp is set to embrace a fresh, more inclusive perspective while keeping history intact. By emphasizing positivity and a true sense of patriotism, the administration hopes to create an environment where all visitors leave feeling inspired and informed, ready to appreciate the great tapestry that is American history—without any ideological strings attached. Now that’s a mission worth cheering for!
