Lonnie Bunch

Mimi Syed, an emergency medicine physician with experience in Gaza, shares harrowing accounts of the humanitarian crisis and challenges in providing healthcare amidst conflict. Maryam Barghouti, a Palestinian journalist, discusses the impact of Israeli policies on Palestinian statehood, revealing personal stories of peril. Lonnie Bunch, Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, critiques political influences on historical representation, highlighting the significance of the National Museum of African American History and Culture in preserving narratives of justice and activism.

In a thought-provoking dialogue, Lonnie Bunch, the first African American head of the Smithsonian and historian, discusses the clash between President Trump's historical interpretations and the museum's mission. He highlights the importance of storytelling to confront racial injustices, sharing the inspiring legacy of Mamie Till Mobley. Bunch delves into pivotal moments like the Greensboro Woolworths sit-in and explores the architectural vision for a museum committed to non-linear narratives about slavery. His insights underscore the vital role of community engagement in honoring complex histories.