Story perspectives

Smithsonian Resists Censorship Amid Political Pressure

9/5/2025

Summary

Story summary

Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch affirmed the institution's independence amid Trump administration's content control demands.
The White House's review targets exhibitions on slavery and LGBTQ+ identities, threatening federal funding for noncompliance.
Artist Amy Sherald canceled her exhibition at the Smithsonian, citing censorship, and will exhibit in Baltimore instead.
Bunch announced a Smithsonian review to maintain nonpartisan and factual programming, resisting White House influence.
Republican pressure has postponed LGBTQ+ events and exhibitions at the Smithsonian.

History

Historical Context

The National Endowment for the Arts was established in 1965 to promote cultural independence in the U.S. However, during the Reagan administration, funding for controversial art faced threats, igniting debates on censorship. Today, Secretary Lonnie Bunch confronts similar pressures from the White House regarding content on slavery and LGBTQ+ identities, underscoring the ongoing struggle for artistic freedom amid political influence.

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Story summary

Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch affirmed the institution's independence amid Trump administration's content control demands.
The White House's review targets exhibitions on slavery and LGBTQ+ identities, threatening federal funding for noncompliance.
Artist Amy Sherald canceled her exhibition at the Smithsonian, citing censorship, and will exhibit in Baltimore instead.
Bunch announced a Smithsonian review to maintain nonpartisan and factual programming, resisting White House influence.
Republican pressure has postponed LGBTQ+ events and exhibitions at the Smithsonian.

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