The Smithsonian Institution’s exhibit ‘In Pursuit of Life, Liberty & Happiness’—a collection of 250 objects marking America’s 250th anniversary—has drawn criticism for its representation of historical and contemporary movements. The exhibit includes items tied to modern liberal causes, such as a pink “p-ssy hat” from the 2017 Women’s March, Nancy Pelosi’s gavel, and a typewriter belonging to Maya Angelou, alongside historically significant artifacts like Abraham Lincoln’s hat and the desk used to write the Declaration of Independence.
A review of the exhibit’s online catalog found seven objects tied to conservative movements, compared to nearly three dozen linked to liberal or progressive causes. The Smithsonian has not publicly commented on the specific breakdown of items by political affiliation, though the exhibit’s curators state it aims to reflect America’s diverse history from the 1700s to the present.
Criticism from conservative groups
Critics, including the White House, argue the exhibit reflects a shift in the Smithsonian’s approach to American history, emphasizing divisive modern political movements over traditional narratives. In a July 4 report titled ‘Saving America’s Story’, the White House stated that the Smithsonian’s leadership has adopted an ideological framework that treats history as a political instrument rather than a shared national heritage. The report specifically cited the Museum of American History, where it claims there are more sections on drag queens than on the founding fathers.
Defense of inclusivity
Supporters of the exhibit argue it reflects the full scope of American history, including marginalized voices and contemporary social movements. The Smithsonian has not disputed the catalog’s contents but has not provided a detailed breakdown of the exhibit’s political distribution. The exhibit’s curators have described it as an effort to honor America’s diverse cultural and historical contributions.
Political response
The exhibit’s selections have become a focal point in ongoing debates over how American history is taught and displayed. President Donald Trump issued an executive order in March 2026 titled ‘Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History’, which called on the Smithsonian to cease replacing objective facts with ideological narratives. The order did not specify enforcement mechanisms but framed the Smithsonian’s approach as a threat to national unity.
The Smithsonian has not indicated plans to alter the exhibit in response to the criticism.