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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:
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Who has the right to vote?
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What are the freedoms and responsibilities of citizens?
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Whose voices will be heard?
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How do you participate as a citizen?
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How do we encourage more people to participate in our democracy?
Voices and Votes: Democracy in America is a springboard for discussions about those very questions and how they are reflected in local stories. 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.
Voices and Votes is based on a major exhibition at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History called American Democracy: A Great Leap of Faith. Content development was led by Harry Rubenstein, Curator Emeritus in the Division of Political History at the National Museum of American History. Voices and Votes has many 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.
Museum on Main Street is a partnership of the Smithsonian Institution’s Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES) and the Idaho Humanities Council, working to bring Smithsonian traveling exhibitions to small Idaho communities each year. This local exhibition is coordinated jointly by the University of Idaho Library and the Latah County Historical Society.