Full Breakdown
Colombia’s President Launches “Counterrevolution” at National Museum
By Drooid · · How we work
President’s Cultural Counterrevolution
Far-right President Abelardo de la Espriella announced a “counterrevolution” aimed at preventing what he describes as “atheist social communism” from dominating cultural institutions. Within days, museum staff removed dozens of exhibits that covered feminist and LGBTQ activism, as well as the nation’s history of political violence.
Museum Removals and Public Reaction
The National Museum in downtown Bogotá was cleared of the targeted displays, prompting a gathering of civil-rights groups, artists and students. Protesters accused the administration of censorship and warned that erasing these narratives would marginalize Black, Indigenous and LGBTQ communities. “I find it outrageous that they want to erase part of our history,” said Azul Riascos, a history student.
Government Rationale and International Context
Culture Minister Paola Holguín said the government is reviewing and redesigning exhibitions and curatorial practices across museums under her ministry. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also renamed a courtyard that had honored an Indigenous leader, framing the change as part of the anti-“woke” campaign. Washington Office on Latin America director Gimena Sanchez-Garzoli linked the move to a broader trend among Trump allies copying U.S. political narratives, noting similar criticism of Smithsonian museums by former President Donald Trump.
Scholarly and Activist Criticism
These voices contend the initiative threatens the preservation of Colombia’s diverse historical memory.
Verbatim Quote
- “I find it outrageous that they want to erase part of our history.” — Azul Riascos, history student.