Republican Senators Target 'Wokeness' at Smithsonian with New Legislation

Republican lawmakers, led by Sen.

Jim Banks, have introduced a bill aimed at banning what they describe as 'wokeness' and 'divisive narratives' from Smithsonian museums. The legislation seeks to codify a previous Trump-era executive order, directing the Smithsonian to avoid politically charged or activist-driven content in its exhibits. Critics, including Sen. John Cornyn, argue that the Smithsonian has shifted away from its educational mission toward political bias. Supporters of the bill claim it will prevent activists from 'rewriting history' in national museums.

The debate highlights ongoing tensions over how American history and culture should be presented in public institutions.