Smithsonian Museum Chief Defends Institution Against White House Criticism of Radical Activism
Anthea M. Hartig, director of the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History, has publicly refuted a recent report from the White House that labeled the museum's leadership as radical activists. The report, released by the White House Domestic Policy Council, criticized the museum for not presenting American history in a manner deemed inspiring and unifying. It specifically targeted the museum's inclusion of diversity, equity, and inclusion elements in its narratives. Hartig, speaking before a House Oversight subcommittee, defended the museum's approach, emphasizing that the institution aims to add voices and evidence to traditional narratives rather than erase them. The museum recently opened an exhibit titled 'In Pursuit of Life, Liberty and Happiness,' showcasing 250 objects to celebrate America's 250th anniversary, including significant historical artifacts like Thomas Jefferson's drafting desk for the Declaration of Independence. 
