Bishop slams Smithsonian for anti-American history indoctrination

Key Points:

• Earl Walker Jackson, a Black bishop and descendant of enslaved ancestors, criticizes the Smithsonian National Museum of American History (NMAH) for promoting what he calls anti-American "indoctrination" and "woke ideology" that unfairly portrays the U.S. negatively.
• The White House Domestic Policy Council's July report accused the NMAH of "ideological capture," highlighting exhibits and leadership statements that frame history as a tool for social justice and reparations, particularly under Director Anthea Hartig.
• Jackson argues history should present facts neutrally, not be used to foster resentment or anger toward America, and he traces much of this ideological influence to Howard Zinn’s "A People's History of the United States," which he says is widely taught despite its polemical nature.
• Jackson has previously challenged the Smithsonian, notably opposing the inclusion of Planned Parenthood founder Margaret Sanger in a civil rights exhibit due to her controversial views, and he warns that such ideological framing in education leads to widespread public resentment.
• Despite his criticism, Jackson expresses strong patriotism, emphasizing that being born in America offers unparalleled opportunity and hope, and he credits his own success to the freedoms and possibilities available in the U.S.