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Utah Library Exhibit Explores Democracy's Many Voices
4 Jul
Summary
- Exhibit explores layered history of American democracy.
- It focuses on Utah and the Intermountain West's contributions.
- The exhibit is free and open to the public until September 9.
To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the University of Utah's J. Willard Marriott Library presents a new exhibit. Titled "America in the Archive: The Many Voices of Democracy," it is on display until September 9 and delves into the complex history of American democracy.
The exhibit challenges viewers to see history not as a linear path, but as an intricate web of diverse stories. It highlights the contributions of various peoples and beliefs, while also acknowledging gaps in historical records. Curators faced challenges using archival materials specific to the American West and distant in time from foundational events.
Starting with a reproduction of the Declaration of Independence, the display progresses through time. It begins with indigenous histories predating European colonization, then examines influential thinkers, and later, westward expansion. The exhibit is free and open to the public, with tours available upon request.
