Seven Indiana organizations have been chosen to host a traveling Smithsonian exhibit that explores the history of democracy in the United States.
“Voices and Votes: Democracy in America” is part of the Smithsonian’s Museum on Main Street initiative and is based on a major exhibition at the National Museum of American History in Washington. D.C. The traveling exhibit features historical and contemporary photos; educational and archival video; multimedia interactives with short games; and historical objects such as campaign souvenirs, voter memorabilia and protest material.
Indiana Humanities in partnership with the Smithsonian selected the seven Indiana organizations to host the exhibit in 2026 and 2027 amid the semiquincentennial, according to a news release. The semiquincentennial commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
“We’re thrilled with the level of excitement and creativity each host site brings to this unique opportunity,” Keira Amstutz, president and CEO of Indiana Humanities, said in the release. “Through ‘Voices and Votes,’ the seven hosts will offer space for Hoosiers to reflect on the history of the nation we share, celebrate the ideals that form the bedrock of the United States, and envision what the next 250 years promise American citizens in the future.”
The following are the dates and hosts in Indiana:
- March 28-May 10, 2026: City of Angola
- May 16-June 28, 2026: Orange County Convention and Visitors Bureau in French Lick
- July 4-Aug. 16, 2026: Rush County Arts and Cultural Council in Rushville
- Aug. 22-Oct. 4, 2026: Upland Historical Society in Upland
- Oct. 10-Nov. 22, 2026: Association for Practical and Professional Ethics in Greencastle
- Nov. 28, 2026-Jan. 10, 2027: Jennings County Historical Society in Vernon
- Jan. 30-March 14, 2027: Whitley County Community Foundation in Columbia City
The host organizations receive training and other free resources from the Smithsonian and Indiana Humanities to host the exhibit. Each organization also will curate a unique part of the exhibit that explores their community’s history of civic engagement.
Go to indianahumanities.org/program/voicesandvotes for more information.