Smithsonian Leader Defends Museum Independence Amid Trump Administration Pressure
Lonnie Bunch, the outgoing Smithsonian secretary, defended the institution against accusations of political bias during a speech marking the 10th anniversary of the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Bunch, who announced his resignation in September, rejected claims that the museum’s staff are unpatriotic, arguing that truthful historical curation is an act of love for the country. His remarks follow a series of executive actions by the Trump administration, including a critical report labeling the museum as ideologically captured and threats to alter exhibits. A new legacy fund, seeded by a $3.5 million anonymous donation and a $1 million pledge from Shonda Rhimes, aims to protect the museum’s independence. The conflict highlights a deepening struggle over the Smithsonian’s role, with the administration seeking to impose conservative narratives while the institution maintains its commitment to independent scholarship.