Trump Fires National Portrait Gallery Director Kim Sajet Over DEI Stance
On May 30, President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to announce the dismissal of Kim Sajet, the director of the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery, labeling her as 'a highly partisan person, and a strong supporter of DEI.' This decision raises concerns regarding Trump's jurisdiction, given that the gallery is part of the Smithsonian Institution rather than a government entity. The termination follows a March 27 Executive Order aimed at the Smithsonian for endorsing 'a divisive, race-centered ideology.' Sajet, who had been at the helm since 2013 and previously directed the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, resigned on June 16, expressing it was 'the honor of a lifetime' to lead the gallery. Kevin Gover will assume the role of acting director.
Key facts
- Trump fired Kim Sajet on May 30 via Truth Social, calling her a 'highly partisan person' and 'strong supporter of DEI'.
- The National Portrait Gallery is part of the Smithsonian Institution, which is not a government agency.
- The firing followed a March 27 Executive Order targeting the Smithsonian for 'divisive, race-centered ideology'.
- Sajet had been director since 2013 and was the museum's first female director.
- She launched the Identify performance art series and Portrait of a Nation Awards in 2015.
- The museum's current exhibition 'America's Presidents' includes a portrait of Trump with a label referencing his impeachments and January 6.
- Sajet resigned on June 16, with Kevin Gover named acting director.
- Sajet increased the museum's endowment during her tenure.
Entities
Artists
- Kim Sajet
- Matt McClain
Institutions
- Smithsonian Institution
- National Portrait Gallery
- Historical Society of Pennsylvania
- Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts
- New York Times
- Truth Social
Locations
- Washington, D.C.
- United States