Smithsonian Secretary Downplays Concerns Over Museum’s Anti-American Narrative
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Outgoing Smithsonian secretary Lonnie Bunch dismissed patriotic criticism of the institution, doubling down on the museum’s controversial focus on America’s flaws, including slavery, during a ceremony at the African American museum.
Lonnie Bunch, the Smithsonian Institution’s outgoing secretary, addressed an audience at the National Museum of African American History and Culture on Friday, defending the museum’s divisive approach to U.S. history. He rejected concerns that Smithsonian staff or exhibits are “un-patriotic,” insisting that the museum’s work is an expression of love and respect for the country, despite its persistent focus on America’s darkest chapters.
“The notion that somehow this museum or any part of the Smithsonian is done by people who don’t love America, don’t care about America, is unbelievably wrong,” Bunch said.
Speaking at an event marking the museum’s 10th anniversary, Bunch, who will step down at the end of the year, argued that understanding slavery is essential to understanding the nation’s foundations. He claimed that “you cannot understand the greatness of a country without understanding the totality of a country” and that curators must highlight “the dark corners” of history—an approach critics say undermines national pride.
His remarks came as the Trump administration has rightly raised concerns about cultural institutions rewriting history and ordered reviews of museum content ahead of the United States’ 250th anniversary. The White House has also called for warning signs at the nearby National Museum of American History to ensure visitors are aware of potential bias.
Bunch also highlighted personal resilience, noting that visits to the African American museum, including seeing Emmett Till’s casket, reinforce his belief in perseverance. He described the museum as a “beacon of possibility” and a “place of resistance” that will persist despite legitimate political scrutiny.
Television producer Shonda Rhimes, a board member, announced a $1 million pledge to a legacy fund established in Bunch’s honor, aimed at supporting the museum’s continued focus on inclusion, public engagement, and independent scholarship—priorities that some argue come at the expense of a balanced portrayal of American history. Acting museum director Shanita Brackett said the fund will help maintain those values without external influence.
The Smithsonian operates independently of the executive branch under a board of regents that includes Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts and Vice President J.D. Vance.