Kim Sajet, the director of the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, DC, announced her resignation on Friday after 12 years in the role. Her departure comes two weeks after former President Donald Trump called for her firing, claiming she was “highly partisan” and supported diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives his administration opposed. In a statement to Smithsonian staff, Sajet said, “It has been the honor of a lifetime to lead the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery.
This was not an easy decision, but I believe it is the right one. From the very beginning, my guiding principle has been to put the museum first. Today, I believe that stepping aside is the best way to serve the institution I hold so deeply in my heart.”
Lonnie G.
Bunch III, the secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, praised Sajet for having “reimagined and reshaped the impact and storytelling of portraiture” during her tenure.
Kim Sajet steps down
He added, “Her decision to put the museum first is to be applauded and appreciated.
I know this was not an easy decision. She put the needs of the institution above her own, and for that, we thank her.”
The Smithsonian Institution, which oversees the National Portrait Gallery and operates independently of the executive branch, confirmed Sajet’s resignation. Earlier this week, the institution released a statement emphasizing its “nonpartisan stature” and noting that “all personnel decisions” are made by its secretary.
Following Sajet’s departure, Kevin Gover, the Smithsonian’s under-secretary for museums and culture, will serve as the gallery’s acting director. Sajet’s resignation marks a significant moment for the National Portrait Gallery, which she has led with dedication and vision as the first woman to hold the position. Her departure also highlights the ongoing tensions between cultural institutions and political figures who seek to influence their operations and initiatives.
