Trump Administration Accuses Smithsonian of 'Anti-White Activism' in 162-Page Report

On July 4, the White House published a 162-page report titled 'Saving America's Story,' authored by the Trump-appointed Domestic Policy Council, accusing the Smithsonian Institution of 'extreme political activism' and 'anti-White activism.' The report scrutinizes exhibits at the National Museum of American History (NMAH) on race, immigration, and gender, targeting even a butterfly-shaped protest prop symbolizing resilience among undocumented immigrants. This escalation follows President Trump's earlier order to investigate 'race-centered ideology' at the institution. Separately, a jewel heist occurred early July 5 at a French museum, with thieves stealing 27 pieces of fine jewelry worth approximately €4 million (~$4.5 million). Hyperallergic also highlights an interview with Carmelita Tropicana (Alina Troyano), a lesbian performance artist from New York's downtown theater scene, who subverts the 'Latin spitfire' stereotype. Other stories include the San Francisco Art Book Fair's 10th anniversary, Bard MFA's 2026 thesis exhibition, a London exhibition on Elizabeth I portraits, two Chicago exhibitions at MCA Chicago and Wrightwood 659, a new book by Met Museum staff, and a member comment on Damien Davis's art market assessment.