Erasing History: The Dangerous Trend of Sanitizing America's Public Memory

Public memory isn’t just about what we remember; it’s also about what we’re told to forget. Right now, in America, government officials are quietly removing critical evidence of slavery, racial violence, and resistance from our parks and classrooms. This leads to a future where justice is disconnected from truth, and “patriotism” is used to excuse this erasure.

The Role of National Parks in Preserving History

National parks should be places that preserve history, not edit it. However, the Interior Department has ordered the removal of signs and exhibits related to slavery, racism, and Indigenous persecution from multiple sites. At Harpers Ferry, for instance, important signs that explain John Brown’s abolitionist raid are being covered up. In Philadelphia, at the President’s House, vital exhibits about the nine people who were enslaved by George Washington are disappearing.

A profound example of this erasure is "The Scourged Back," an iconic photograph from 1863 depicting Peter Gordon’s whipped back. The image has historically challenged Americans to face the brutal reality of slavery. Yet, officials claim that such representations “disproportionately emphasize negative aspects” of U.S. history. Staff are instructed to cover or completely remove references to racism and oppression, and visitors are even encouraged to report “offending” material.

"The Scourged Back," an iconic photograph from 1863 depicting Peter Gordon’s whipped back

In fact, a 2022 survey from the National Park Service revealed that 62% of visitors found depictions of difficult historical themes crucial to understanding the full story of America. Suppressing these narratives undermines the educational mission of our public lands.

The Impact of Sanitized Education

Meanwhile, the Education Department has established the America 250 Civics Education Coalition to celebrate the nation's anniversary. On the surface, it promotes unity and pride. However, the coalition is primarily run by conservative organizations such as the Heritage Foundation, Moms for Liberty, and Turning Point USA. These groups are directing millions into “patriotic education” initiatives that showcase only America’s positive milestones while neglecting its failures.

This isn’t bipartisanship, it’s curation. Recently, teacher training funds have been cut, while the civics education budget has swelled by over 40%. However, this increase is aimed solely at programs that overlook the harsh realities of slavery, systemic racism, and the activist movements that have fought for justice.

The result is a generation of students who may have a skewed understanding of American history. According to a 2021 study by the Annenberg Public Policy Center, only 39% of Americans could name the three branches of government, which signals a broader lack of engagement with civics education.

The Consequences of Erasure

Public history is never neutral. When we erase narratives of brutality and resistance, calls for justice today may seem unwarranted. Sanitizing history distorts our understanding of the past and diminishes the struggles of those who fought for justice and equality.

By hiding these critical narratives, we risk raising a generation unaware of the complexities of America's history. This ignorance can lead to disconnection from the very values of justice and equality our nation claims to uphold. For instance, studies reveal that students who learn about injustices, such as slavery, tend to have a clearer understanding of the roots of current social issues and are more engaged in advocating for change.

The Dangers of a One-Sided Narrative

The trend of sanitizing public memory poses a serious threat. When history is presented in a one-dimensional way, it nurtures a false sense of patriotism that ignores the real struggles and sacrifices of countless individuals. This selective memory can result in a society that is ill-equipped to confront today’s issues of inequality and injustice.

Moreover, glorifying a sanitized history creates a dangerous expectation that certain narratives are more valid than others, reinforcing the silencing of marginalized voices. This erasure not only distorts our grasp of the past but also influences present and future discussions about justice and equality.

The Call for a More Inclusive History

Given these developments, it is vital to advocate for a more inclusive approach to public memory. This involves not only preserving the stories of those who resisted oppression but also integrating these narratives into our educational systems and public spaces.

By embracing a broad view of history, we can cultivate a society that values truth and justice. This includes acknowledging our past's darker themes while celebrating the resilience of those who have fought for a better future. Studies indicate that inclusive curriculums improve critical thinking skills among students, fostering a deeper understanding of social justice issues.

Remembering for the Future

As we navigate this pivotal moment in America’s story, recognizing the importance of public memory is crucial. Remembering isn’t just about honoring victories; it's about facing uncomfortable truths that shape our society.

By resisting the urge to sanitize history, we can work toward a future rooted in fairness, justice, and comprehension of our shared history's complexities. It is our duty to ensure that the stories of marginalized individuals remain alive, woven into the fabric of our national narrative. Only then can we truly recognize and honor the ongoing struggles for justice and equality.

The fight for a more inclusive public memory is not merely about preserving the past; it is about crafting a future grounded in truth, justice, and an understanding of the shared human experience.