Historian claims Smithsonian's history museum has shifted focus to activism

Historian and museum professional Dr. Jody Edward Ginn, who visited the National Museum of American History for the first time since 2012, said the museum’s focus has shifted from education to activism. He noted that the museum’s revised mission emphasizes directing visitors toward action rather than providing neutral historical information. Ginn claimed he observed factual inaccuracies and omissions in exhibits, and described recent displays as “graphic” and “sexually explicit,” arguing they are unsuitable for families.

Ginn referenced a Domestic Policy Council report that criticized the Smithsonian for not presenting history in a way that is “inspiring, unifying, and worthy of our great republic.” He also cited a 2017 internal guide that links objectivity to “white supremacy culture,” suggesting it reflects an activist agenda. During a recent House hearing, lawmakers questioned museum director Anthea Hartig about exhibits such as “Illegal to Be You: Gay History Beyond Stonewall” and a toolkit referencing the Ferguson protests.

"It became this goal, their own stated goal, to turn museums from institutions of education, of public education, into institutions to encourage activism, which could also be said to indoctrinate," Ginn said.

Ginn argued that the museum’s changes represent a broader shift in the museum profession and called for staffing changes to restore scholarly standards. The Smithsonian was contacted for comment but did not respond.