The Smithsonian Institution on Monday unveiled its brand new “Our Shared Future” programming for America’s 250th birthday this year, after the White House launched a review of the group’s plans.
The series of events and exhibitions throughout the year is part of the Smithsonian museum network’s “Our Shared Future: 250” title. The purpose of the programming is twofold: to reminisce about the nation’s founding in 1776 and its extensive history, and to look forward to the future.
“America’s 250th reminds us that the story of the United States is not only about the past we inherit but also the ideals we continue to pursue,” Smithsonian Institution Secretary Lonnie Bunch said in a statement. “With Our Shared Future: 250, the Smithsonian is engaging communities across the country to explore the history that connects us and the future we share. This is a moment to celebrate, to reflect and to renew our commitment to the enduring promise of America.”
Some of the new events and exhibitions are specifically tailored to celebrate certain aspects of American heritage, such as folklife and bison.
Three bronze sculptures of American bison, the nation’s official mammal, are currently on permanent display outside the National Museum of Natural History. Additionally, a bison-themed exhibition will be open at the museum from May 7 to May 2029.
Other programs include a three-day film festival in May dedicated to Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and America’s 250th anniversary; an AR-storytelling experience honoring important American women; and an exhibition focused on the stories behind U.S. postage stamps.
In the weeks leading up to the Fourth of July, the Smithsonian will host a four-day event that marks the summer solstice on June 21. The annual Solstice Saturday event is a big hit in Washington, D.C., so the museum organizers are extending it to last the entire weekend this year.
Notably, the Smithsonian Castle will temporarily reopen this summer to allow visitors to tour the iconic 19th-century building. The castle has been closed since Feb. 1, 2023, due to a major five-year renovation. Construction will be temporarily paused as the castle remains open to the public from May 22 to Sept. 7.
The Smithsonian Arts and Industries Building, the second-oldest building in the museum network, will also be temporarily reopened from June to September.
Months ago, the White House started reviewing materials for the Smithsonian’s America 250 exhibits to ensure they aligned with the Trump administration’s vision for the semiquincentennial. At the time, the Smithsonian said it provided documents to the administration per the White House’s request.
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The Trump administration intensified pressure on the Smithsonian last year by threatening to withhold or cut federal funding if the museum’s exhibits were deemed “divisive” or “partisan.” The Smithsonian receives over $1 billion in federal funding per year.
The Washington Examiner contacted a Smithsonian spokesperson for comment on the review’s status and the Smithsonian’s cooperation with the White House.