A museum dedicated to the freedom of press and the First Amendment is selling “Make America Great Again” hats and “Fake News” T-shirts, both online and in their museum.
The Washington, D.C.-based Newseum has been selling the iconic red MAGA hats for months, and the “Fake News” T-shirts are being sold at a discount on their online store.
Some have aired their grievances, arguing that the items being sold have nothing to do with protecting the First Amendment.
I saw this display at the Newseum in September. I thought it was weird then. But if they have “Fake News” shirts it’s like selling racist propaganda at an Museum of Tolerance. pic.twitter.com/VoeCG51UTP
— Rachel Joy Larris (@RachelLarris) August 3, 2018
If you’re a journalism museum …
1) Don’t monetize attacks on journalism
2) When you get caught, don’t lie about your reasons
3) Also, the truth — “We don’t have any money so we had to make some sacrifices” — is actually far more on-brand for journalism than this b.s. pic.twitter.com/SBB3lUgaSN— Sam Baker (@sam_baker) August 3, 2018
The term “fake news” became a common phrase used by President Trump during his 2016 campaign and throughout the first year and a half of his presidency. He often calls mainstream media outlets “fake news,” claiming that a lot of the negative reporting about his administration is fabricated.
The store also sells Trump-themed coloring books, which, according to a New York Times writer, is an item that is handed out during Trump rallies.
The Newseum did not immediately return request for comment on the sale of these items. There are, however, items for sale that feature former presidents.
There is a mug being sold online that has faces printed on it of prominent Democrats, including former President Barack Obama.
The Newseum features exhibits related to news and media, especially regarding its involvement with politics and coverage of world events.
