NAACP Opposes Trump’s Recent Attempts to Whitewash American History
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 28, 2025
Contact: Dominic Hawkins, communications@naacpnet.org
WASHINGTON — The NAACP strongly opposes President Donald Trump's recent executive order titled "Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History." This directive seeks to eliminate what the administration inaccurately terms "divisive, race-centered ideology" from institutions like the Smithsonian, aiming to change the narrative of our nation's history.
Today, Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP, released the following statement in response to President Trump's executive order seeking to distort American history:
"At a time when our economy faces significant challenges and unemployment rates are on the rise in large part due to the actions of this administration, the president is choosing to focus on undermining our nation's true history, once again using race as a tool to divide us. America's strength lies in our ability to confront our past honestly, recognize our shortcomings, and unite to push forward. Attempting to whitewash the experiences of marginalized communities only serves to deepen divisions and hinder progress.
"We must firmly oppose any measures seeking to erase or distort American history. Let's be clear: you can not restore truth that was based on lies. No matter how challenging it may be for some to realize this, Black history is American history. We must ensure stories of all Americans are told truthfully and completely, so we can remember our past and inform our future.
"Instead of focusing on dividing the country through race, we demand that this administration prioritizes policies that address real, pressing concerns like the country's economic issues. While we will ensure our history is told, we won't be distracted by divisive actions like these. The NAACP will continue to work towards building a more just and equitable society."
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About NAACP
The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.
NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.