Salisbury University to host the Smithsonian traveling exhibition “Voices and Votes: Democracy in America”
Story by Melinda McPeek
Salisbury University’s Edward H. Nabb Research Center is one of five communities selected by Maryland Humanities to host the Smithsonian traveling exhibition Voices and Votes: Democracy in America. Voices and Votes is based on a major exhibition currently on display at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. This Museum on Main Street adaptation will have many of the same dynamic features: 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. Our democracy demands action, reaction, vision and revision as we continue to question how to form “a more perfect union.” How do you participate as a citizen? 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.
DOCUMENTING OUR DEMOCRACY Companion exhibits from the Smithsonian and Salisbury University will display historical photos and videos, campaign souvenirs, voter memorabilia, protest material and additional items from contributing museums.
In conjunction with the Smithsonian exhibition, the Nabb Research Center will highlight artifacts, documents and stories from its collection that promote discussion and inspire visitors to think about the democratic process, activism and civic engagement within our local community. The companion exhibit will feature voter registration ledgers, campaign memorabilia and items from local political and civic groups.
In addition, several area museums and historical organizations will be contributing items for the exhibition that highlight democracy on Delmarva.
Voices and Votes: Democracy in America will be on display at the Salisbury University campus in the lobby of the Guerrieri Academic Commons from August 14 to September 25. The companion exhibit will be featured in the G. Ray Thompson Gallery on the fourth floor of the Guerrieri Academic Commons from August 14 to December 10, 2021.