In a controversial move, the National Park Service (NPS) has removed significant historical exhibits that address the complexities of slavery and Indigenous history from various national monuments. This action, taken in compliance with an executive order issued by the Trump administration, has sparked outrage among historians, activists, and local authorities who argue that it undermines the integrity of America’s historical narrative.
Removal of Key Exhibits in Philadelphia
At the President’s House in Philadelphia, a site of historical importance that once commemorated the lives of enslaved individuals owned by George Washington, 34 informative panels were dismantled on 22 January. This removal was part of a broader effort to align national monuments with the executive order titled “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History,” issued on 27 March 2025. Critics lament that the absence of these explanatory panels severely restricts public access to a comprehensive understanding of the nation’s founding, particularly regarding slavery.
Ed Stierli from the National Parks Conservation Association expressed dismay at this decision, highlighting that the NPS had previously made commendable progress in educating visitors about difficult historical topics. “By removing this exhibit, visitors will miss out on a fuller understanding of our history,” Stierli stated. He added that the removal of such exhibits is not just a local issue but extends to several national parks across the United States.
Legal Action and Public Backlash
In response to the removal, Philadelphia has filed a lawsuit against the federal government, seeking to restore the exhibit and prevent further alterations to the site. On 2 February, Judge Cynthia M. Rufe issued a temporary order halting any further changes until the case is reviewed. A spokesperson for the Department of the Interior responded to the lawsuit by directing attention to Philadelphia’s local issues rather than addressing the historical implications of the NPS’s actions.
As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary on 4 July, Stierli voiced concerns about the implications of this executive order on the morale of NPS staff. “This administration is making their jobs harder, which jeopardises the storytelling vital to our national parks,” he said.
Impact on Indigenous Histories
The executive order has also adversely affected exhibits at other significant sites, including Montana’s Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, where discussions on Indigenous history have been flagged as noncompliant. Dr. Leo K Killsback, a Northern Cheyenne historian, expressed frustration over the removal of well-researched panels that aimed to present an honest portrayal of Native American experiences. “Erasing history is not only an affront to progress, but it also undermines the contributions of Indigenous peoples,” Killsback remarked.
Dr. Rasul Mowatt, a professor at North Carolina State University, noted that Indigenous and Black American histories have often been overlooked or inadequately represented. “The United States has a long history of contested memorialisation,” Mowatt explained, underscoring the importance of presenting a nuanced view of history that includes diverse perspectives.
The Broader Implications of Historical Erasure
The absence of critical narratives from national monuments raises pressing questions about how history is remembered and taught. Stierli pointed out that learning about these stories in situ offers a unique and powerful educational experience that cannot be replicated through digital platforms. “There’s a particular power that comes with learning about these stories in the place that they happened,” he said.
As the NPS grapples with the fallout from these removals, there is growing concern that the erasure of historical content will lead to a simplified and misleading understanding of America’s past. This shift not only affects how history is perceived today but also poses a significant challenge for future generations seeking to engage with a more inclusive narrative.
Why it Matters
The removal of historical exhibits from national monuments is a critical issue that reflects broader societal struggles over memory and representation. Erasing or altering historical narratives risks undermining the complexity and richness of the American experience, particularly for marginalized communities. As the nation prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary, it is essential to acknowledge and celebrate both the triumphs and the failures of its history. This effort is not merely academic; it is a matter of recognising the diverse voices that have shaped the United States and ensuring that their stories are heard and valued in the national discourse.
