Collections Corner

VOICES AND VOTES: DEMOCRACY IN AMERICA

March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, August 28, 1963. Courtesy of National Archives

This summer the AAMI will partner with the Czech Village New Bohemia Mainstreet District and the National Czech and Slovak Museum to bring Voices and Votes: Democracy in America to Cedar Rapids. This Museum on Main traveling exhibit is based on an exhibition on display at the National Museum of American History that explores the history of American democracy from its inception in the 18th Century to more recent struggles to ensure that the ideals of this democracy can be realized for all Americans.

The Smithsonian Instition Traveling Exhibition Service states that this adaptation will have many of the same dynamic features as the exhibit in DC, including historical and contemporary photos; educational and archival video; engaging multimedia interactives with short games and additional footage, photos, and information; and historical objects like campaign souvenirs, voter memorabilia, and protest material. We are excited to host this exhibit, which is sure to spark conversations around issues of rights and freedoms that continue to impact American society.

Voices and Votes: Democracy in America will be on display at the AAMI from July 3, 2020 to August 15, 2020.

UNWAVERING: 21ST CENTURY ACTIVISM

The AAMI’s 2020-2021 temporary exhibit, Unwavering: 21st Century Activism, will examine contemporary social movements that affect African Americans, from Black Lives Matter to the MeToo movement. These coalitions continue to bring to light the struggle for black civil rights and equality that started over a century ago, most popularly recollected in the Civil Rights and Black Power movements of the 20th century. However, the way movements are organized and mobilized in the 21st century is unique from their predecessors.

Visitors will learn about past and present social movements involving the black community, the meaning of protest and social justice in the modern era. They will also learn how people can make change in their communities and the broader world.

Unwavering will provide a deeper understanding of how the African American community intersects with other diverse groups in addressing current social justice issues. The exhibit and supporting programming will run from September 19, 2020 to August 7, 2021.