Story perspectives

Trump's Directive Erases Slavery Reminders from National Parks

9/16/2025

Summary

Story summary

President Trump ordered the removal of materials related to slavery and racial injustice from national parks to promote a positive view of U.S. history.
This includes the removal of the photograph "The Scourged Back" and over 30 signs addressing slavery and discrimination.
Critics argue this erases marginalized contributions and increases federal control over historical narratives.
The National Park Service defends the removals to prevent distortion of historical understanding.
Trump's actions also target Smithsonian museums, which he claims emphasize America's negative history.

History

Historical Context

The Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery in 1865, fundamentally altering U.S. society. In 1916, the National Park Service was established to preserve historical narratives, including those of marginalized communities. Trump's 2020 directive to remove materials related to slavery echoes past attempts to control historical narratives, raising concerns about the erasure of critical contributions to America's ongoing struggle for racial equity.

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Story summary

President Trump ordered the removal of materials related to slavery and racial injustice from national parks to promote a positive view of U.S. history.
This includes the removal of the photograph "The Scourged Back" and over 30 signs addressing slavery and discrimination.
Critics argue this erases marginalized contributions and increases federal control over historical narratives.
The National Park Service defends the removals to prevent distortion of historical understanding.
Trump's actions also target Smithsonian museums, which he claims emphasize America's negative history.

1 / 2