On March 27, 2025, President Donald Trump reportedly signed an executive order instructing Vice President JD Vance to eliminate what he termed “improper ideology” from federal institutions, including the National Zoo.
In the order, Trump criticized the Smithsonian Institution for adopting a “divisive, race-centered ideology” that he claims undermines American values and historical narratives.
He stated that the institution once symbolized American excellence but has shifted toward promoting harmful views about American and Western culture.
The executive order emphasizes Trump’s intention to restore federal sites, such as museums and parks, to educational facilities that uplift and remind citizens of the nation’s rich heritage and commitment to progress, liberty, and prosperity.
Trump declared, “Museums in our Nation’s capital should be places where individuals go to learn — not to be subjected to ideological indoctrination or divisive narratives.”
To implement these changes, Trump directed Vance to utilize his position on the Smithsonian Board of Regents, focusing on removing any perceived improper ideological influence from the institution’s museums and research centers.
The order further aims to restrict funding for exhibits and programs that are seen as degrading to American values, or that divide people based on race.
Notably, Trump also specified that the American Women’s History Museum should not recognize transgender individuals as women in any capacity.
Vance’s appointment to the Smithsonian Board occurred earlier this year, and this executive order underscores the administration’s focus on controlling the ideological direction of federal cultural institutions.
This development adds to the ongoing debate regarding the influence of identity politics within American public life.
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