We are pleased to announced that the Mississippi Humanities Council has selected Utica as one of the host towns for the “Voices and Votes: Democracy in America” traveling exhibit in 2022! The exhibition examines the nearly 250-year-old American experiment of a government “of, by and for the people,” and how each generation since continues to question how to form “a more perfect union.” Opening at the Utica Institute Museum May 17th, 2022, “Voices and Votes” will be on view through June 28th, 2022.
“Voices and Votes” explores the action, reaction, vision and revision that democracy demands as Americans continue to question how to shape the country. From the revolution and suffrage, to civil rights and casting ballots, everyone in every community is part of this ever-evolving story—the story of democracy in America. Exhibition sections explore the origins of American democracy, the struggles to obtain and keep the vote, the machinery of democracy, the right to petition and protest beyond the ballot and the rights and responsibilities of citizens. “Voices and Votes” features historical and contemporary photos; educational and archival video; engaging multimedia interactives with short games; and historical objects like campaign souvenirs, voter memorabilia, and protest material.
We will adding a local exhibit featuring oral histories from Uticanites about their first experiences voting, along with public programming designed to engage folks of all ages with this important content. There are lots of opportunities to get involved, including serving as a volunteer docent! Stay tuned for more.
