Judge Orders Slavery Exhibit Reinstalled Amid Controversy

A federal judge has mandated the reinstatement of a slavery exhibit in Philadelphia after its removal spurred controversy and legal action. The decision counters former President Trump's efforts to remove elements of history he perceives as 'anti-American' and highlights ongoing debates around historical preservation.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Updated: 17-02-2026 08:19 IST | Created: 17-02-2026 08:19 IST
Judge Orders Slavery Exhibit Reinstalled Amid Controversy
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In a pivotal legal decision, a Pennsylvania federal judge ordered the reinstatement of a slavery exhibit at a Philadelphia historic site. This comes after the exhibit was controversially removed following claims by former President Donald Trump that such displays promote an 'anti-American ideology'.

The judge's order arrives amidst backlash from civil rights groups and local authorities who see the removal as an attempt to erase uncomfortable parts of American history. U.S. District Judge Cynthia Rufe criticized the federal government's stance, likening it to George Orwell's '1984' in her opinion.

Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, supporting the lawsuit, emphasized the importance of confronting all aspects of history. The case continues to fuel ongoing national debates about how historical truths are preserved and presented in public spaces.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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