Lonnie G. Bunch III, the first Black historian to lead the Smithsonian Institution, announced Tuesday that he will step down as secretary by the end of the year. Bunch, who was appointed in 2019 to head the world's largest museum and research complex, stated that he is leaving with very mixed emotions.
The departure follows a tumultuous year characterized by attacks from President Donald Trump. The president has frequently targeted Bunch and the Smithsonian's exhibits, attempting to remake the portrayal of U.S. history and challenging the institution's content and independence.
While Bunch acknowledged that the pressure from the president's attacks has been stressful, he cited personal reasons for his departure. He specifically stated that pressure from President Trump played no role in his decision and vowed to continue defending the institution's independence until he leaves.