Representative Jasmine Crockett criticized former President Donald Trump’s recent attacks on the Smithsonian Institution for its focus on the harsh realities of slavery, calling it an attempt to whitewash history and undermine educational integrity.
Who: The key figures involved are Donald Trump, the former president and current political figure, who launched the attacks, and Representative Jasmine Crockett, a Democrat from Texas, who responded to them. The Smithsonian Institution, a group of museums and research centers, is at the center of the controversy, along with various experts and political commentators.
What: Trump accused the Smithsonian museums of being ‘out of control’ and too focused on highlighting the negative aspects of American history, specifically ‘how bad slavery was,’ in a post on Truth Social. In response, Crockett slammed these remarks as divisive, historically inaccurate, and part of a broader effort to purge cultural institutions of content that doesn’t align with Trump’s political agenda.
When: These events occurred on August 19, 2025, with Trump’s social media posts and the immediate reactions from Crockett and others unfolding throughout the day. The news came into public awareness on reliable websites within the last 24 hours, making it relevant today.
Where: The controversy is primarily set in the United States, with a focus on Washington D.C., where the Smithsonian museums are located. However, it has national implications, affecting discussions about history education and cultural policy across the country.
Why: Trump’s motivation appears to stem from his desire to promote a version of American history that emphasizes exceptionalism and downplays negative aspects like slavery, as part of his political directives. Crockett and critics argue that this is an attempt to whitewash history and suppress truthful narratives about America’s past.
How: Trump used his platform on Truth Social to make the attacks and has previously initiated a White House review of the Smithsonian to ensure alignment with his views. Crockett responded through media interviews, such as on CNN, where she condemned Trump’s statements and highlighted the importance of accurate historical education.
Impact: This incident has sparked widespread debate about the role of museums in society, historical accuracy, and government influence on cultural institutions. It has drawn criticism from historians, educators, and politicians who warn that such moves could erode public trust and educational standards. Supporters of Trump argue for a more patriotic narrative in public exhibits.
What’s next: The Smithsonian is undergoing a review as directed by the Trump administration, and further actions, including potential changes to exhibits or funding adjustments, are anticipated. Continued political and public discourse is expected, with possible legislative or legal challenges to protect institutional independence.
Source: https://www.cnn.com/2025/08/19/politics/trump-slavery-museum-smithsonian