Kate Laurensen is a veteran reporter. She started out covering entertainment news for the local city paper before moving up to the City desk. She studied journalism at San Francisco City College for the Arts.
February 20 , 2025
Washington, DC - President Donald Trump has signed an executive order establishing March as "White History Month." The controversial decision, announced late last night, has drawn sharp reactions from political leaders, historians, and civil rights organizations across the country.
The executive order, titled "Preserving and Promoting White American History," is aimed at highlighting the historical contributions and cultural impact of White Americans throughout U.S. history. Trump stated that the month-long observance will "honor the achievements, sacrifices, and legacy of White Americans who have shaped our nation."
Supporters of the initiative argue that the month is necessary to balance the attention given to other heritage months, such as Black History Month in February and Hispanic Heritage Month in September and October.
“I believe it is important to recognize the vast and often overlooked contributions of White Americans to the fabric of this great nation," Trump said in a statement. "White History Month will give us an opportunity to reflect on how far we've come, and to honor the figures and events that helped make America the powerhouse it is today."
However, critics have swiftly condemned the move, accusing Trump of attempting to rewrite history and perpetuate division. “This is a blatant attempt to ignore the struggles of marginalized communities and elevate a narrative that has historically been overrepresented in textbooks, media, and politics,” said Maya Johnson, a spokesperson for the National Civil Rights Coalition. “White Americans have always been central to American history, but the fight for equality, justice, and recognition for all groups should not be dismissed or minimized.”
The decision has reignited debates over the role of government in shaping national identity. Some state leaders, particularly those in Republican-led regions, have praised Trump’s executive order, signaling their intent to commemorate the month with local events and educational programs.
The order also proposes the establishment of a White History Month committee, tasked with organizing events, lectures, and educational initiatives throughout the month of March. These events would focus on the lives of notable White figures from American history, as well as the exploration of historical events from a perspective that emphasizes their impact on White Americans.
Though the order has generated overwhelming controversy, some conservative voices argue that White Americans have long been underappreciated in the national conversation about race and history. Trump’s supporters believe the initiative is long overdue, providing a counterbalance to what they view as excessive focus on race and ethnicity in recent public discourse.
“We cannot continue to ignore the history of those who built this country,” said political commentator Tucker Carlson. “This is a great day for America, and I fully support President Trump’s effort to remind us all of our shared history.”
As March approaches, it remains to be seen how communities across the nation will respond to White History Month, with the potential for both celebrations and protests. Educational institutions, museums, and government bodies will likely find themselves at the center of a growing debate over what constitutes an inclusive, truthful account of American history.
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