A federal judge ordered the Trump administration on Monday to restore exhibits on slavery that had been removed from the President’s House in Philadelphia last month.
Restoration Order Issued
U.S. District Judge Cynthia M. Rufe ruled that the federal government must restore the site to its condition as of January 21, 2026, the day before the exhibits were taken down. The order requires the National Park Service to maintain the site and ensure the safety of the exhibits, which memorialize the enslaved people who lived in George Washington’s Philadelphia home during his presidency.
Judge Rufe previously called the argument that a president could unilaterally change exhibits in national parks “horrifying” and “dangerous” during a hearing last month. She had then ordered the federal government to safeguard the panels.
Broader Initiative and Legal Challenge
The removal of the exhibits was part of a nationwide initiative to remove content from national parks that, according to orders issued by President Trump and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, “inappropriately disparage Americans past or living.” The Park Service previously removed signage at the Grand Canyon regarding the mistreatment of Native Americans.
Philadelphia filed a federal lawsuit against Burgum, acting National Park Service Director Jessica Bowron, and their agencies the same day the exhibits were dismantled. The federal government may appeal Judge Rufe’s order, though the Interior Department, National Park Service, and U.S. Attorney’s Office have not yet commented on the ruling.
The federal government had argued that removing the exhibits caused no irreparable harm because they are documented online and replacing the panels would cost $20,000. Judge Rufe disagreed, stating that leaving the President’s House “dismembered” also dismembers the history it recounts.
Advocates Celebrate, Prepare for Further Fight
Leaders of the Avenging the Ancestors Coalition, which advocates for the protection of the President’s House, learned of the court’s decision during a Presidents’ Day event. Michael Coard, a leader of the coalition, told a crowd of about 100 people that they had “won in federal court.” However, advocates anticipate the Trump administration may appeal or disregard future rulings, and believe further action may be necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the judge order the Trump administration to do?
The judge ordered the Trump administration to restore exhibits on slavery to the President’s House in Philadelphia to the condition they were in as of January 21, 2026.
Why were the exhibits removed in the first place?
The exhibits were removed as part of a nationwide initiative to remove content from national parks that was deemed to “inappropriately disparage Americans past or living.”
Is this the end of the legal battle?
No, the injunction does not resolve the underlying lawsuit, and is in effect for the duration of the litigation. The federal government has the option to appeal the judge’s order.
As this case unfolds, what role should public engagement play in shaping the narratives presented at national historical sites?
