DCentric Picks — Race: Are We So Different?
This week, we recommend attending the Saturday opening of “Race: Are We So Different?” at the Smithsonian’s Natural History Museum.
We got a sneak peak of the exhibition this week and took some photos, which you can see below. A long room in the museum is devoted to exploring the scientific, historical and and societal assumptions and theories around race. The exhibition aims to educate and challenge assumptions around race, but also solicits attendees to contribute their thoughts on their own experiences. If you’re looking for a good way to start an in-depth discussion about race, you can find it here.
The nationally touring exhibition, part of an American Anthropological Association project, is free to view and will be on display until Jan. 2, 2012. A number of talks and other events are scheduled throughout its time at the museum, so check the calendar for more information.
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"Race: Are We So Different?" will be open on view in the Smithsonian's Natural History Museum until January 2012.
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The exhibition starts with asking attendees to discuss why race is important, and then proceeds to break down assumptions, antiquated scientific theories and the history of race in the U.S.
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The exhibit starts with emphasizing our common ancestry. A giant map demonstrates that all of humanity's roots trace back to Africa.
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Seemingly simple questions -- "How are we alike and different?"-- with interactive elements give attendees pause
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Interactive elements are incorporated throughout the exhibition. Here, a woman learns about the ancestry of people of varying races.
Elahe Izadi permalink
Discrimination is not always based on appearances -- voice can play a factor, too. Various portions of the exhibition use data to demonstrate how racism plays out in various aspects of life and society.
