Smithsonian Director Rejects 'Woke' Label in White House Report

Anthea M. Hartig, director of the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History, rejected a recent White House report that characterized the museum's leadership as "woke" and untrustworthy. Hartig stated in testimony before a House Oversight subcommittee that the report "does not fairly or accurately characterize the full body of work at the museum." This pushback occurs amidst a broader initiative by President Donald Trump to reshape the narratives presented by federally influenced cultural institutions, particularly by removing diversity, equity, and inclusion elements.

The White House Domestic Policy Council's report, released on July Fourth, coincided with the 250th anniversary of American independence. It argued that the museum, a prominent institution on the National Mall, fails to present history in a manner "inspiring, unifying, and worthy of our great republic." Republican members of the subcommittee echoed these criticisms, with Rep. Tim Burchett of Tennessee stating that the museum's "woke exhibits and materials reflect a broader vision held by the museum leadership" and that history is presented as "an ongoing power struggle between oppressors and the oppressed."

Hartig, the first female director of the National Museum of American History, asserted that the institution "does not take sides in America’s political debates." She described the museum's approach to presenting national history as an evolutionary process aimed at incorporating more voices, rather than erasing historical accounts, as critics sometimes suggest. She emphasized the value and inspiration found in the museum's collections, exhibits, and programming, while acknowledging that there is always room for improvement.