Lonnie G. Bunch III: Championing History at the Smithsonian

As Lonnie G. Bunch III strolls through the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., his passion for history shines brightly. One key exhibit, the 1903 Wright Brothers’ flyer, catches his attention. On a visit to Kitty Hawk in North Carolina, he relished seeing a replica. Yet, he felt pride knowing the Smithsonian housed the original: ‘We have the real one!’ His words emphasize the imaginative spirit the flyer symbolizes and its place in the American ethos.

Bunch, as the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, manages 20 museums and the National Zoo. His career began at the Air and Space Museum nearly 50 years ago, due to the foresight of Michael Collins, a former Apollo 11 astronaut and the museum’s director at that time. Bunch reflects on Collins hiring him, recognizing Bunch’s enthusiasm for history, even when uncertain about his path.

In 2019, Bunch broke barriers as the Smithsonian’s first historian and first African American Secretary in its 180-year history. At his installation ceremony, he referenced Frederick Douglass’s plight, pointing to the evolution of the institution. Bunch declared his commitment to sharing honest, often challenging stories, noting, ‘We are a different institution, and nothing is impossible.’

When asked about the dangers of avoiding difficult narratives, Bunch likened it to an incomplete doctor’s diagnosis. Understanding one’s full history is crucial; museums serve as America’s storytellers. Recently, the Smithsonian has faced challenges. March 2025 saw an executive order from President Trump, criticizing the institution’s ‘divisive, race-centered ideology’ and threatening funding cuts. Social media posts echoed this sentiment.

Despite these pressures, Bunch stated his retirement decision wasn’t influenced by them. He acknowledged these challenges as drivers for his long tenure. Bunch expressed determination to safeguard the Smithsonian and counter perceptions that it harbors radical ideologies.

The White House’s report on July 4 heightened tensions, attacking the National Museum of American History and its perceived bias. It suggested entrance warnings for visitors about the institution’s supposed anti-patriotic tendencies. Bunch countered claims, affirming employees’ dedication to their country. He advocated for nuanced narratives about the Founding Fathers, refuting oversights in their portrayal.

Questioned about his patriotism, Bunch shared childhood memories of Memorial Day parades and family military service. His commitment to America includes acknowledging its complexities. Bunch spearheaded the National Museum of African American History and Culture, emphasizing the museum’s success in narrating collective and individual journeys.

As he anticipates his successor, Bunch calls for leadership grounded in historical understanding, political awareness, and resilience. He humorously points to blaming him if needed—a reflection of his legacy. Until year-end, Bunch remains focused on providing a thorough American narrative at the Smithsonian, which he views as the nation’s collective memory.

For additional insights, explore Lonnie G. Bunch III’s extended interview and his book excerpt, ‘A Fool’s Errand,’ offering perspectives on America’s historical memory.