The Smithsonian Institution has reaffirmed its independence with a statement that seems to distance itself from President Donald Trump’s recent decision to terminate the National Portrait Gallery Director, Kim Sajet.
This declaration was made by the Smithsonian’s Secretary, Lonnie G. Bunch, who indicated he has the full backing of the Board of Regents to manage the institution’s affairs.
The statement emphasized that personnel decisions would rest with Bunch, not the Trump administration, underscoring the Smithsonian’s commitment to its autonomy.
This announcement followed a much-anticipated meeting of the Board of Regents, which deliberated on Sajet’s future after Trump announced her dismissal via social media, labeling Sajet as ‘a highly partisan person’ and a fervent supporter of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).
While the Smithsonian’s statement did not confirm Sajet’s continuation in her role, it articulated a clear message of independence, beginning with a historical reference: ‘In 1846, the Smithsonian was established by Congress as an independent entity.’
The text continued by outlining the governance structure, stating: ‘Throughout its history, the Smithsonian has been governed and administered by a Board of Regents and a Secretary.’
The statement effectively reinforced that the Board of Regents is charged with maintaining the Smithsonian’s independence and has the authority to appoint a Secretary to oversee the institution’s operations.
The Smithsonian’s position comes in light of the White House’s recently proposed budget for 2026, which includes a notable 12% cut in funding to the institution.
This proposal encompasses the removal of funding for the development of the National Museum of the American Latino and the Anacostia Community Museum, which has been integral in celebrating Black culture since 1967.
The tensions surrounding the Smithsonian grew following President Trump’s issuance of an executive order on March 27 titled ‘Restoring truth and sanity to American history.’
This order sought to terminate federal funding for exhibitions that it characterized as based on divisive racial themes, aiming to protect Americans from what the administration labeled as a divisive, race-centered ideology.
The executive order directed Vice President JD Vance to eliminate ‘improper ideology’ from the Smithsonian’s 21 museums and its National Zoo in Washington, indicating a significant push by the Trump administration to reshape federal cultural institutions.
The Smithsonian has not escaped scrutiny amid these political maneuvers; however, it is crucial to note the distinction between its governance structure and that of institutions like the Kennedy Center.
While the Kennedy Center’s board members are appointed by the president, the Smithsonian’s board is comprised of representatives from all three branches of government.
Vance serves on the Board of Regents, alongside notable figures such as Chief Justice John G. Roberts.
In its assertion of independence, the Smithsonian highlighted its commitment to being a nonpartisan institution, stating: ‘Since its inception, the Smithsonian has set out to be a nonpartisan institution.’
The Board of Regents stressed the importance of ensuring that the Smithsonian remains a welcoming place for knowledge and discovery for all Americans.
To uphold these foundational values, the Board has mandated that the Secretary articulate specific expectations concerning museum content to directors and staff.
This directive includes allowing museum directors adequate time to enact any necessary changes to assure neutrality in the exhibitions and to provide updates to the Board regarding their progress and any needed personnel adjustments based on this progress.
image source from：https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/story/2025-06-09/smithsonian-institution-trump-order-fire-national-portrait-gallery-director
