Director says the Smithsonian museum’s full body of work is not accurately represented
WASHINGTON — The director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History disputed a recent White House report on Tuesday that accused the institution’s leaders of being radical activists who cannot be trusted.
“As we continue to fact check the report, we unwaveringly attest that it does not fairly or accurately characterize the full body of work at the museum,” director Anthea M. Hartig told a House Oversight subcommittee.
“There is always room for improvement,” Hartig said. “But I also know the beauty and the inspiration and the expertise that lies in our collections, our exhibits, and our programming.”
The White House Domestic Policy Council released its report on July Fourth, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of American independence. It argued that the museum — a centerpiece of the sprawling Smithsonian complex on the National Mall — does not tell history “in a way that is inspiring, unifying, and worthy of our great republic.”
On Tuesday, Republicans on the panel reiterated some of the concerns raised in the White House report.