House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) has taken a bold stand against President Trump’s recent executive order regarding the Smithsonian Institution. In a powerful letter to Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts, Rep. Jeffries urges him to reject the order and defend the honesty and integrity of the Smithsonian’s mission.
The executive order, which was signed by President Trump on June 29th, calls for the restoration of “truth and sanity” to the Smithsonian Institution. While this may sound like a noble goal, the order has sparked widespread concern and condemnation from both lawmakers and the American public.
In his letter, Rep. Jeffries emphasizes the importance of the Smithsonian as a national institution that tells the story of America. He reminds Chief Justice Roberts, who serves as President of the Smithsonian’s Board of Regents, of the institution’s storied legacy and the responsibility to uphold its values.
Rep. Jeffries writes, “As the Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court and as President of the Board of Regents of the Smithsonian Institution, it is imperative that you, along with your fellow Regents, continue the storied legacy of the Smithsonian that tells the American story honestly, accurately, and without political influence.”
The Smithsonian Institution, which was founded in 1846, has a long history of promoting scientific and cultural knowledge through its network of museums, research centers, and educational programs. It is a revered institution that has served as a source of inspiration and education for generations of Americans.
The current executive order, however, has raised concerns about the potential politicization of the Smithsonian’s exhibits and programs. It calls for a “refocusing” of the institution’s efforts to promote “patriotic education” and a “pro-American curriculum.” This has sparked fears that the Smithsonian’s important role as a place for historical and scientific exploration may be compromised.
Rep. Jeffries rightly points out that the Smithsonian has a responsibility to present the American story in an honest and unbiased manner. This includes acknowledging and learning from the darker chapters of our history, such as slavery, segregation, and systemic racism. It is through these uncomfortable truths that we are able to progress and build a better future for all Americans.
As Rep. Jeffries states in his letter, “It is only by acknowledging and understanding our past that we can hope to build a more perfect union for our future.” This sentiment is deeply rooted in the mission of the Smithsonian and should not be compromised by political motives.
The House Minority Leader also expressed concern over the potential impact of the executive order on the Smithsonian’s funding and independence. The order directs the Secretary of the Interior, who oversees the Smithsonian, to withhold federal funding from any institution that does not comply with the order’s directives. This could have a chilling effect on the Smithsonian’s ability to pursue its mission without fear of political repercussions.
Rep. Jeffries urges Chief Justice Roberts to use his position as President of the Board of Regents to reject this executive order and protect the autonomy of the Smithsonian. He writes, “As the head of the Smithsonian’s governing body, you must ensure that the institution remains free from political interference and continues to serve as a beacon of truth and knowledge.”
In conclusion, Rep. Jeffries’ letter to Chief Justice Roberts is a powerful reminder of the important role the Smithsonian plays in our society. It is a call to action to defend the integrity and independence of this beloved institution. We can only hope that Chief Justice Roberts heeds this call and stands up for the truth and the American story at the heart of the Smithsonian’s mission.
