This exhibition examines voting rights with an emphasis on the role of the US Constitution and the interplay between the states and federal government in determining who is allowed to vote. Beginning with the founding era and going up to the election of 2000, this exhibition explores the complex history of the right to vote that forms the core of our nation’s democracy. Topics include voting as a constitutional right, women’s suffrage, Reconstruction and Jim Crow era voting rights, the Civil Rights Movement, and the enfranchisement of Indigenous peoples.
LOGISTICAL INFORMATION
NOTE: Due to the overwhelming response to this exhibition offer, the first five display windows are now CLOSED for applications. We highly recommend applying for a 2024 rental window.
Size: Seven freestanding retractable panels, each 33" x 81", requiring 21 running feet for display.
Rental Fees: From May 2023 through June 2024, this exhibition is available at no cost to your venue through the Institute’s project The Right to Vote: The Role of States and the US Constitution, supported by the Annenberg Public Policy Center. Recipients will be selected following the submission of the application listed below. Applications for upcoming 2024 rental periods are due as follows:
- January 22–February 16: apply by November 20
- March 4–29: apply by January 8
- April 15–May 10: apply by February 12
- June 3–28: apply by April 1
Purchase Information: This exhibition is not currently available for purchase.
Please email exhibitions@gilderlehrman.org for more information about the exhibition and education@gilderlehrman.org for more information about The Right to Vote project.
SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIALS
These materials will be available once you book your exhibition:
- Exhibition Guide including program ideas, suggested reading, and full panel text
- Educator’s Guide to assist with integrating the exhibition into your coursework
- Detailed Set-Up Instructions