Controversy Surrounds Smithsonian Hearings and Reparations

Sunny Hostin, co-host of ‘The View’, expressed her views on the congressional hearings about the Smithsonian Institution, claiming they are tied to the issue of reparations for descendants of slaves under the Trump administration. She suggested that the hearings aim to reshape the nation’s history, making it less likely to compensate Black Americans for their contributions to building the country through forced labor.

During a Capitol Hill session, Smithsonian National Museum of American History Director Dr. Anthea Hartig was questioned following a report critical of the museum’s political leanings. Hostin argued this reflects a broader effort to prevent financial reparations for African Americans, citing historical examples where truth and reconciliation commissions were utilized, unlike the case for slavery.

Hostin referred to a United Nations resolution from March 2026, which declared the transatlantic slave trade as a severe crime against humanity. The U.S., Argentina, and Israel opposed this resolution, while 123 countries supported it, and 52 abstained.

U.S. Ambassador Dan Negrea stated before the vote that the U.S. does not recognize a legal right to reparations for past actions that were not illegal under international law at their occurrence. Hostin criticized this stance, emphasizing the monetary aspect and the avoidance of paying African Americans reparations.

In a PBS documentary, ‘Finding Your Roots’, Hostin was startled to learn her ancestor was a slaveholder. Similarly, her husband Manny’s family also has connections to Spain, providing shared heritage for their children.

Previously, Hostin faced criticism for her comments on feeling unsafe in neighborhoods displaying American flags.

Hanna Panreck is an associate editor at Fox News.