Last week, Civic Nebraska helped kick off American Democracy: A Great Leap of Faith, a Smithsonian Institution traveling exhibition now open at the Durham Museum in Omaha. The Durham is the first of 12 stops in the schedule of the exhibition, which examines our nation’s experiment in a government “of, by, and for the people.” The Omaha World-Herald also published this story on American democracy in conjunction with the opening of the exhibition.
We’ve been pleased to help bring some local perspective to parts of this national project during its time in Nebraska. American Democracy runs until June 23 at the Durham. Over the next few months, the museum is hosting students of all ages and sharing programming that complements the exhibition — including Democracy In Nebraska, our new video about the Cornhusker State’s unique system of government, and how that practically compels us to participate as citizens.
Several hundred students saw the video March 1 as part the Durham’s special Statehood Day event. Then, they got a chance to participate in some democracy of their own by casting ballots for their favorite flavor of ice cream at the museum’s first-floor soda fountain. We’ve also partnered with the Durham to deliver “Civic Care Packages” – posters, games, activities, curriculum guides, and the video – to more than 100 school districts around the state.
As defenders of democracy, we’re proud to be a small part of this project. Be sure to visit the Durham this spring and take in the new exhibition – it’s informative, interactive, and most of all, inspiring. It reminds us that democracy is not a spectator sport. You’ll walk out ready to get more involved in your community!
