On behalf of James Nelson, Director of Grants, Michigan Humanities Council: jnelson@mihumanities.org

Sonya Schryer Norris

517-335-1498

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Bring the Smithsonian to your community in 2021

Michigan Humanities is partnering with the Smithsonian’s Museum on Main Street program to bring the traveling exhibit Voices and Votes: Democracy in America to Michigan in 2021. Six host communities will have the opportunity to host the exhibit rent-free for six weeks.

When American revolutionaries waged a war for independence they took a leap of faith that sent ripple effects across generations. They embraced a radical idea of establishing a government that entrusted the power of the nation not in a monarchy, but in its citizens. That great leap sparked questions that continue to impact Americans: who has the right to vote, what are the freedoms and responsibilities of citizens, and whose voices will be heard? Voices and Votes: Democracy in America will be a springboard for discussions about those very questions and how they are reflected in local stories.

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.

To learn more about becoming a host site and to apply please visit the Michigan Humanities website: https://www.michiganhumanities.org/

For questions about the exhibit please contact Director of Grants, James Nelson, by email (jnelson@mihumanities.org) or phone (517-372-7770).