Smithsonian Museum Director’s Social Justice Agenda Exposed After Congressional Testimony
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A video of National Museum of American History Director Anthea Hartig describing history as a tool for social justice has resurfaced, raising questions about the Smithsonian’s supposed nonpartisanship after her congressional testimony.
A presentation recorded in February 2025 at the University of California, Los Angeles reveals National Museum of American History Director Anthea Hartig openly describing the museum’s work as "equity-based, justice-forward" and calling history "a prime tool of social justice." These remarks stand in stark contrast to her testimony before a congressional subcommittee in July, where she claimed the Smithsonian’s research is guided by standards of scholarship, accuracy, independence and nonpartisanship, and insisted the institution does not take sides in political debates. This contradiction raises serious concerns about the true direction of the Smithsonian under her leadership.
During the UCLA talk, Hartig emphasized the museum’s efforts to document the Black Lives Matter movement, promoted a “bold new vision” to make the museum more inclusive and accessible, and discussed initiatives such as multilingual signage and collaborations with activist groups. She also referenced a land acknowledgement and images of protest signs from 2020, further highlighting the museum’s embrace of left-wing activism.
The resurfaced comments have been cited by critics who argue the director’s statements expose a partisan agenda at the heart of the Smithsonian. The institution has not responded to requests for comment, leaving many to question whether it can truly remain nonpartisan under current leadership.