The story of democracy in America comes to Vivian

VIVIAN, La. (Ark-La-Tex Weekend) - It’s not everyday the Smithsonian Institute brings a show to the Ark-La-Tex. That comes to fruition on Monday, December 19. Everyone can see Voices and Votes: Democracy in America thanks to the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities and Shreve Memorial Library. View it at the North Caddo Branch of the Shreve Memorial Library in Vivian.

From the press release, this patriotic exhibition examines the nearly 250-year-old American experiment of a government “of, by and for the people,” and how each generation since continues to question how to form “a more perfect union.” 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. Exhibition sections explore the origins of American democracy, the struggles to obtain and keep the vote, the machinery of democracy, the right to petition and protest beyond the ballot and the rights and responsibilities of citizens. “Voices and Votes” features historical and contemporary photos; educational and archival video; engaging multimedia interactives with short games; and historical objects like campaign souvenirs, voter memorabilia, and protest material.

Why Vivian? Because this show is part of the Museum on Main Street program by the Smithsonian to bring programs specifically to rural towns.

Look for special programs and events during the month of January that compliment this exhibition. Branch hours are Monday through Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Thursday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and on Sundays from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. A reception takes place on Saturday, January 7, 2022 at 1:00p.m. The show lasts until January 25, 2023.

Read more about the exhibit from the Smithsonian Institute here.

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