Lonnie G. Bunch III, Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, often shows his passion for history while navigating the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. He expressed a deep affection for the museum, highlighting the 1903 Wright Brothers’ flyer as one of his favorite exhibits. Bunch shared a humorous anecdote about visiting Kitty Hawk, where he saw a replica of the flyer and felt proud to have the original on display at the Smithsonian.
As Secretary, Bunch oversees 20 museums and the National Zoo. His journey began nearly 50 years ago at the Air and Space Museum, thanks to its then-director, former Apollo 11 astronaut Michael Collins. Bunch attributes his hiring to his passion for history, a trait that Collins likely recognized.
In 2019, Bunch made history as both the first historian and first African American to serve as Secretary in the Smithsonian’s long history. During his installation, he emphasized the importance of truth-telling, even concerning difficult stories. His commitment to truth echoes through his beliefs: if these stories are not told, a complete understanding of identity is lost.
“It’s like visiting a doctor and asking to hear only half the story; you end up incomplete,” Bunch explained.
Bunch asserts that museums are top storytellers in America. However, recent political challenges have placed pressure on the Smithsonian. In March 2025, an executive order from President Trump criticized the Smithsonian for alleged divisive ideologies. Bunch dismissed claims that retiring related in any way to White House pressures, stating his long tenure was driven by a desire to protect history and counter accusations of left-wing radicalism.
A July report issued by the White House detailed criticism of the Smithsonian, suggesting that museums had failed in honoring the Founding Fathers adequately. Bunch countered these allegations, expressing confidence in already existing exhibits that acknowledge these figures.
Despite questions from some about his patriotism, Bunch remains resolute. The questioning, he believes, ignores his deep-seated love for the nation, inherited from his World War II veteran father. For Bunch, fully embracing history is a way to honor America’s past.
The creation of the National Museum of African American History and Culture stands as Bunch’s most significant achievement. Opened a decade ago, it garners widespread acclaim. Bunch describes the museum as embodying American journeys and narratives.
Looking to the Smithsonian’s future, Bunch identifies the needed qualities for the next Secretary. This includes historical knowledge, political awareness, and bravery, with a willingness to accept accountability.
Until his farewell, Bunch assures the Smithsonian’s dedication to providing America with a comprehensive self-image. “The Smithsonian is America’s collective memory,” Bunch asserts, warning against becoming a nation that forgets its history.
WEB EXCLUSIVE: Watch an extended interview with Lonnie G. Bunch III (Video) Extended interview: Lonnie G. Bunch III 19:30