Key facts
- Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch defended the institution's historical narratives against political attacks.
- Bunch stated that telling the unvarnished truths of history is an act of 'great love' for the country.
- He rejected claims that the Smithsonian's staff or exhibitions are unpatriotic.
- Bunch's remarks were made at an event celebrating the 10th anniversary of the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
- The Trump administration has accused Smithsonian leaders of being radical activists and ordered a review of museum content.
- Bunch emphasized that understanding the totality of a country, including its 'dark corners,' is necessary to grasp its greatness.
Lonnie Bunch, the outgoing secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, delivered a passionate defense of the organization's mission to present complex historical truths, directly countering criticisms from Donald Trump and his administration. Speaking on Friday at the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, Bunch received a standing ovation as he asserted that the institution's work is driven by a profound love for America.
Bunch, who will step down at the end of the year after a decade as founding director and later secretary, rejected the notion that the Smithsonian's staff or exhibitions are unpatriotic. He argued that understanding the nation requires confronting its entire history, including difficult aspects like slavery, which he described as "foundational." "You cannot understand the greatness of a country without understanding the totality of a country," Bunch stated. "You cannot understand all without illuminating the dark corners. Curating means let’s shine the light. Let’s tell the truth."
His remarks come amid heightened scrutiny from the Trump administration, which has accused cultural institutions of attempting to "rewrite our Nation's history." The administration previously issued a report labeling Smithsonian leaders as "radical activists" and ordered a review of museum content. Trump himself has publicly criticized the Smithsonian for focusing on the country's negative aspects, such as slavery, rather than its successes.
During the event, Bunch shared personal reflections, mentioning how viewing Emmett Till's casket at the museum reinforces his belief in perseverance. He called the museum a "beacon of possibility" and a "place of resistance" that will endure. The discussion also highlighted a new legacy fund launched in Bunch's honor, which received a $1 million pledge from television producer Shonda Rhimes and an initial anonymous donation of $3.5 million, with a goal of $10 million. Acting museum director Shanita Brackett confirmed the fund's purpose is to support the museum's values of inclusion and independent scholarship.
The Smithsonian Institution operates independently of the executive branch, overseen by a board of regents that includes Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts and Vice President JD Vance. Following Bunch's departure announcement, Senator Alex Padilla commended him for his courage in speaking "truth to power."