The Smithsonian refers to itself as the nation's attic. Its network of publicly funded museums collects, displays and explains American history.

However, the Trump administration is now scrutinizing how the National Museum of African American History and Culture carries out this mission. The White House is pushing for "content corrections" in exhibits at the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture, deeming the current depictions of slavery and migration divisive.

Critics warn of historical erasure, while museum-goers and historians emphasize the importance of confronting the past.