Smithsonian comes to UI

The Smithsonian exhibit “Voices and Votes: Democracy in America” opened at the University of Idaho Library, encouraging student engagement in the democratic process as the general election approaches. The exhibit, which runs until October 3, features various sections on ideals of democracy, including citizenship, protests, and women's suffrage. Items on display include political campaign buttons from past presidential candidates, donated by a professor from the university's political science department. A torch light used for campaigning in the 1880s is also part of the exhibit. Hayley Noble of the Latah County Historical Society called the exhibit a “timely display,” underscoring the need for students to understand democracy.

Camille Daw from the Idaho Humanities Council stated that the exhibit aims to inspire political activism among college students. Interactive kiosks present oral histories that highlight how individuals historically participated in democracy. The exhibit is part of a statewide tour, with future stops planned in Coeur d’Alene and Priest River.