A FIRST LADY'S
shining moment BY ARCHINI DESAI
eside every well-regarded and appreciated U.S. President stands a strong, prominent first lady. A first lady with her own morals, goals, and tribulations, whether or not they coincide with that of her partner. Her presence is often overlooked, yet she works vigorously behind the scenes while bearing unconventional roles along the way. Contrary to her lack of recognition, renowned presidential exhibits and museums span the country in remembrance of her partner’s life. Now, the tides have begun to shift, with 250 years of first ladies being represented in The
B
13
Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery’s new exhibit (Cohn, 2020). The exhibit, appropriately named “Every Eye is Upon Me: The First Ladies of the United States,” highlights the lives and achievements of influential women ranging from Martha Washington to Melania Trump (Smithsonian, 2020). The exhibit covers extensive collections of portraits, sculptures,
