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Chairman Steil's full opening statement as prepared for delivery:
America has an incredible story to tell.
250 years ago, our forefathers declared independence from the British empire - and we won.
We launched into world history the first civilization dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.
Our constitution established a republican form of government, with checks and balances to protect that proposition.
We fought a civil war to preserve our union and finally free those in bondage.
Since then, we've revolutionized technology,
Liberated Europe,
And we even planted the American flag on the Moon.
The Smithsonian National Museum of American History was established by Congress to champion our story.
In 1953, the Smithsonian told Congress the museum would: "commemorate our heritage of freedom"
At the museum's dedication ceremony in 1964, then-President Johnson said the museum would "foster patriotism."
Unfortunately, today the museum has shifted its focus to political activism.
But don't take my word for it.
One of our witnesses today is the museum's Director, Dr. Anthea Hartig.
Dr. Hartig, you have said "history is a prime tool of social justice."
You believe your role as a historian is to connect "research and scholarship to activism and advocacy."
You even said "loving America is very complicated."
Sadly, this isn't just rhetoric.
You built that into the museum's exhibits.
You built it into the website to convey an ideological narrative that denigrates our founders, diminishes our achievements, and seeks to divide the American people.
The authors of the Domestic Policy Council report argued that museum visitors should be warned:
"The exhibits in this museum were prepared by people who don't want you to love your country."
If you read this detailed report, or if you just walk into the museum, it's hard not to agree with that conclusion.
I'll conclude with this: It's not only ok to love America. It is great to love America.
It's true, our history isn't perfect.
But throughout this history, Americans have striven - even died - to get our nation closer to the ideals in our founding documents.
To create a more perfect union.
That requires introspection and honesty.
But it also requires gratitude, appreciation, and celebration of how revolutionary the American experience has been and continues to be.
The current focus of activism by leadership at the museum undermines that.
It's unacceptable that American tax dollars are supporting that divisive work.
It's time we allow the United States to speak for itself.
When its America that speaks, not elites or NPR, the world loves America - its success, its uniqueness, its exceptionalism.
When America's story speaks for itself -- without ideological bias, political advocacy, or woke talking points -- America is loved and admired.
It's time this museum returned to its core, founding mission when it was created: Fostering patriotism and telling our story of achievement.
Unfortunately the museum has strayed from its mission, and that is the focus of today's hearing.
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