(AURN News) — The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) has forcefully rejected President Donald Trump's executive order targeting Smithsonian programs, characterizing it as an attempt to "whitewash" American history.

CBC Chair Rep. Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) and caucus members issued a statement responding to Trump's order that restricts funding for Smithsonian programs the administration claims promote "divisive narratives" and "improper ideology."

"There is nothing divisive or improper about telling the truth. We detest this administration's dedication to whitewashing our nation's history," the CBC statement said. "Donald Trump's idea that the National Museum of African American History and Culture is guilty of distorting our nation's history or painting our 'founding principles' in a 'negative light' is patently ridiculous."

In his executive order, Trump claimed the museum had characterized concepts including "hard work," "individualism," and "the nuclear family" as aspects of "white culture." He wrote that museums should be places "to learn -- not to be subjected to ideological indoctrination or divisive narratives that distort our shared history."

The CBC's statement also emphasized the importance of historical accuracy.

"Let's be clear, Black history is American history," the caucus wrote. "Any rhetoric that opposes this notion is not only factually incorrect but blatantly racist. We will not stand for anything aside from the truth."

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices