Story perspectives

Trump Orders Smithsonian Warning Signs on History Exhibits

By Drooid · Sep 24, 2026, 3:38 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

President Donald Trump ordered signs warning that some Smithsonian exhibits may present an inaccurate portrait of American history.
Acting director Shanita Brackett says the museum has made no curatorial changes, only rotating objects needing conservation.
The museum marked its 10-year anniversary with weekend events, including a “Understanding America” discussion led by founding director Lonnie Bunch.
Lonnie Bunch announced his retirement this month, sparking speculation about future Smithsonian leadership.

History

Historical Context

The PBS documentary series American Experience launched on October 4 1988 and by its eighth season in October 1995 was delivering new episodes produced by Boston’s WGBH, a model of public history that has earned 30 Emmy Awards. Its long-run, through the 1990s and into the 21st century, shows how public-media productions have repeatedly faced political and budgetary scrutiny.

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Story summary

President Donald Trump ordered signs warning that some Smithsonian exhibits may present an inaccurate portrait of American history.
Acting director Shanita Brackett says the museum has made no curatorial changes, only rotating objects needing conservation.
The museum marked its 10-year anniversary with weekend events, including a “Understanding America” discussion led by founding director Lonnie Bunch.
Lonnie Bunch announced his retirement this month, sparking speculation about future Smithsonian leadership.

1 / 2