Smithsonian’s First Black Secretary to Retire Amid Battle Over How America’s History is Told

September 16, 2026

Lonnie G. Bunch III, who broke barriers as the Smithsonian Institution's first African American leader and created the National Museum of African American History and Culture, has announced plans to retire at the end of 2026 after nearly forty years of service. His departure comes during a period of significant tension between the Smithsonian and the Trump administration regarding how American history should be presented in national museums, with the White House advocating for changes to exhibits it views as overly negative or divisive.

Who is affected

Lonnie G. Bunch III (retiring Smithsonian secretary)
The Smithsonian Institution and its staff
The National Museum of African American History and Culture
The Trump administration and White House officials
Historians and Democratic lawmakers who have criticized White House intervention
The 13 million-plus visitors who have attended the African American history museum
The Smithsonian Board of Regents
Chief Justice John Roberts (serving as Smithsonian chancellor)

What action is being taken

The Trump administration is pushing for changes to exhibits and historical interpretation at Smithsonian museums
The Smithsonian Board of Regents will be naming an acting secretary and conducting a national search for Bunch's successor
The National Museum of African American History and Culture is celebrating its 10th anniversary

Why it matters

This situation matters because it represents a fundamental conflict over institutional independence and the integrity of historical narratives at America's most prominent national museums. The tension between government pressure and scholarly autonomy raises concerns about whether complete and honest historical storytelling—including difficult aspects of American history—can be preserved without political interference. The departure of a pioneering leader during this contentious period underscores the stakes of the ongoing national debate about who controls how America's story is told in public institutions.

What's next

Bunch will retire at the end of 2026
The Smithsonian Board of Regents will name an acting secretary
A national search for Bunch's successor will begin
Bunch is scheduled to appear at the African American history museum on September 25 for its 10th anniversary celebration

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint