Critics SLAM Smithsonian for Anti-American Narrative

Smithsonian’s exhibitions come under fire for promoting a narrative that critics say undermines American values.

Story Snapshot

• The Smithsonian’s 2025 exhibits focus on climate change, racial history, and a critique of American identity.
• Critics argue these exhibits promote narratives of environmental doom and racial grievance.
• A debate has arisen over the Smithsonian’s role in shaping public narratives and values.
• The exhibitions have sparked political and cultural discussions.

Smithsonian’s 2025 Exhibitions and Their Controversial Themes

The Smithsonian Institution is launching several new and revamped exhibitions in 2025, sparking debate among critics and supporters alike. These exhibitions, which focus on climate change, racial history, and critical examinations of American identity, are seen by some as promoting narratives of environmental catastrophe and racial grievance. Critics argue that the themes challenge traditional American values and question the notion of American exceptionalism.

The exhibitions include “Knowing Nature,” which explores climate change through Indigenous perspectives, and “We Gather at the Edge,” highlighting Black women’s quilting traditions. “Aerospace and Our Changing Environment” will focus on climate change and aerospace innovation, while “Nick Cave: Mammoth” will explore themes of land, race, and environment.

Public and Political Reactions

These exhibitions have drawn both support and criticism, reflecting broader societal debates. Supporters argue that addressing climate change and racial issues is necessary to reflect pressing social and scientific concerns. They see the exhibitions as opportunities for public engagement and education. However, critics warn of potential politicization and argue that the exhibitions may alienate certain audiences by promoting a divisive narrative.
President Trump and some conservative commentators have criticized the Smithsonian for what they perceive as an abandonment of traditional American ideals. They argue that the exhibitions advance a narrative that undermines values central to American identity.

Impact on Museums and Cultural Institutions

The Smithsonian’s approach to these exhibitions could influence other cultural institutions nationwide. Museums may increasingly address contentious social issues, reflecting a shift in public expectations. However, this could lead to political scrutiny of federally funded institutions, as debates over representation and ideological bias continue to unfold.

As the exhibitions open, they are likely to impact public conversations about race, environment, and national identity. The Smithsonian aims to foster dialogue and reflect contemporary issues but must balance public accountability and curatorial independence.

NEW: President Trump’s administration has ordered a sweeping review of the Smithsonian museums to ensure their exhibitions laud American exceptionalism and remove divisive race-baiting or partisan narratives. pic.twitter.com/ZxMvuRI4S4

— Election Wizard (@ElectionWiz) August 13, 2025

Sources:

Smithsonian Magazine: Nineteen New and Revamped Smithsonian Shows to See in 2025
Northern Virginia Magazine: 10 Exhibits Coming to DC’s Smithsonian Museums in 2025
Smithsonian Pocket Guide
Aerospace and Our Changing Environment
Smithsonian Newsdesk: Exhibitions