Smithsonian Institution Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III said the greatest strength of the U.S. is not running away from its history.
Bunch said the remarks during an interview on NBC’s "Meet the Press" on May 28, 2026. His comments come as the nation observes its 250th anniversary [1], a milestone that has sparked renewed debate over how the country remembers its past and defines its identity.
During the appearance, Bunch discussed the potential for history to serve as a unifying force for Americans. He said that confronting the full scope of the national narrative—including its failures and triumphs—is essential for fostering genuine unity [1], [2].
Bunch's perspective comes at a time of significant institutional scrutiny. In a separate discussion with The New York Times on May 28, 2026, he addressed the complexities of managing the national museums, saying, "I love thinking creatively about, how do you protect the Smithsonian?" [3].
While the interview focused on the 250th anniversary, some reports indicate Bunch has faced political challenges during his tenure [2]. The secretary said that the role of the Smithsonian is to preserve the American story in its entirety to ensure future generations understand the evolution of the republic [1], [3].
By anchoring the anniversary in historical truth rather than sanitized nostalgia, Bunch said that the U.S. can better navigate its current divisions. He said that the ability to look back honestly is what allows a society to move forward together [1].
“America’s greatest strength is ‘not running away from its history.’”
The emphasis on historical confrontation during the 250th anniversary reflects a broader shift in American museology. By framing the acknowledgment of national flaws as a 'strength' rather than a liability, the Smithsonian is attempting to position the institution as a mediator of national identity during a period of high political polarization.
