Bunch Steps Down After Historic Tenure | Art News

Lonnie Bunch, the Smithsonian’s first African American secretary and architect of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, is stepping down after eight years—not because of pressure, but to honor his personal goals and celebrate the museum’s milestones. Amid intense criticism from the Trump administration, which accused the institution of promoting a “divisive, race-centered ideology,” Bunch called those claims mischaracterizations, defending the Smithsonian’s mission to tell America’s full, inclusive story. He stood firm against demands to censor exhibits, insisting all changes were internally driven. Though the constant scrutiny took a toll, he chose to leave on his own terms, seeking grace for himself and acknowledging quiet support from board members like Chief Justice John Roberts, who praised his vision. Reflecting on his tenure, Bunch admits self-doubt but ultimately believes he did a good job. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Sources:https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2026/sep/12/lonnie-bunch-smithsonian-resignation-trump More coverage & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/8cb827ce2b8f9cd4 Report issues to [email protected].