What's Happening?
In response to an executive order from President Trump, which critiques the Smithsonian Institution's portrayal of American values, volunteer 'citizen historians' have initiated a project to document the current state of exhibits across the Smithsonian's 21 museums. Led by historians Jim Millward and Chandra Manning, the effort aims to preserve a record of the museums' contents before any potential changes are implemented. Hundreds of volunteers are photographing exhibits to create an archive, ensuring that historical narratives remain intact despite political pressures.
Why It's Important?
The initiative by citizen historians highlights the tension between political influence and historical preservation. The Smithsonian, as a repository of American history and culture, plays a crucial role in educating the public. Efforts to document its exhibits reflect concerns over potential censorship or alteration of historical narratives. This movement underscores the importance of safeguarding cultural institutions from political interference, ensuring that history is preserved accurately and comprehensively for future generations.
