2011 ANNUAL REPORT - Chicago History Museum

2011 ANNUAL REPORT
Facing Freedom
Freedom is anything but simple. This
innovative exhibition examines eight
conflicts over freedom from the 1850s to the
1970s. Told through artifacts, photographs,
films, audio clips, and activities, each
conflict is presented from the participants’
perspectives. Through the large themes
of unite, defend, speak out, and struggle,
visitors are invited to consider events of
the past in the present tense, placing
themselves in the position of past Americans
and engaging with their struggles on a
first-name basis. Our record as a nation
isn’t unspotted when it comes to freedom.
It is important to remember the times we
have struggled with our better natures to
make the most basic rights available to
all. These stories are important reminders
that Americans in all times have worked to
define—and defend—their own rights.
The Naphtali ben Yakov Pritzker American History
Wing is made possible through a generous grant
from Tawani Foundation, through the support
of Colonel (IL) J. N. Pritzker, IL ARNG (retired),
President and Founder, Pritzker Military Library
and Tawani Foundation.
main menu
10