Alamo Trust CEO Resigns Amid Criticism from Texas Officials

UPDATE: The CEO of the Alamo Trust, Kate Rogers, has resigned following intense criticism from Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick. This dramatic shift occurred just one day after Patrick publicly called for her removal, claiming her views conflicted with the historical narrative of the iconic Texas landmark.

Rogers announced her resignation on November 3, 2023, stating that it became clear recent events necessitated her departure. Her resignation comes in the wake of Patrick’s letter to the Alamo Trust’s Board of Directors, where he labeled her academic critique of Texas education policies as “shocking” and questioned her judgment regarding the portrayal of the Alamo’s history.

The Alamo, a site that attracts over 1.6 million visitors annually, is currently undergoing a significant transformation, with a $400 million renovation planned, including a new museum and visitor center set to open in 2027. This change is critical for Texas as it seeks to redefine its historical narrative amid ongoing debates over educational content across the nation.

In her academic paper, which Rogers wrote for her doctorate at the University of Southern California, she challenged the conservative legislative agenda of the Texas government, which has sought to limit discussions around race and slavery in education. “Philosophically, I do not believe it is the role of politicians to determine what professional educators can or should teach in the classroom,” Rogers stated, emphasizing the need for an inclusive narrative of Texas history.

Patrick’s letter explicitly criticized her approach, stating, “I believe her judgment is now placed in serious question.” He highlighted the narrative of the Alamo as “13 Days of Glory,” reinforcing the traditional view of the site as a symbol of freedom and sacrifice for Texas independence.

In response to this political interference, Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai condemned Patrick’s actions, asserting, “We need to get politics out of our teaching of history. Period.” This statement reflects a growing frustration among local leaders regarding the influence of politics on education and historical interpretation.

Rogers’s paper also referenced the book “Forget the Alamo,” which argues that economic motives, particularly the desire to maintain slavery, played a critical role in Texas’s fight for independence. Her intention was to present a more nuanced view of the Alamo’s history, including its significance to Indigenous peoples and the complex societal narratives that have often been overlooked.

The controversy surrounding Rogers’s resignation underscores a broader national discourse on how history is taught and remembered. As political leaders like Patrick push for a more traditional narrative, educators and historians are advocating for a more comprehensive understanding of America’s past, one that acknowledges the roles of race and slavery.

Going forward, eyes will be on the Alamo Trust as it navigates this tumultuous period. The leadership change raises questions about the future direction of the site and how it will address the evolving expectations of its diverse visitor base. The upcoming renovation and the establishment of the new museum are anticipated to reflect these ongoing discussions, making it essential for stakeholders to consider the implications of their historical narratives.

As Texas continues to grapple with these issues, the impact of Rogers’s resignation may resonate beyond the Alamo, influencing discussions around history education and political influence nationwide. The urgency of this situation calls for immediate attention from both local and national audiences, as the Alamo remains a pivotal point in American history and identity.