Summary
Volunteers called "citizen historians" are documenting exhibits at the Smithsonian museums due to concerns about possible changes under President Trump's administration. This effort began after Trump officials requested a review of the Smithsonian's museums. The volunteers aim to preserve the current state of these museums.
Key Facts
- President Trump issued an executive order concerning the Smithsonian's portrayal of American and Western values.
- Trump administration officials requested an internal review of eight Smithsonian museums.
- Volunteers, including retired professionals and historians, are documenting current exhibits at the Smithsonian.
- Historians Jim Millward and Chandra Manning initiated the call for volunteers.
- The effort is inspired by similar initiatives like "Save Our Signs" in National Parks.
- Volunteers are creating an archive by photographing museum exhibits as they are now.
- The Smithsonian hosts millions of artifacts across 21 museums.
- Volunteers come from diverse backgrounds and locations around D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.
