The Museum of Democracy (MoD) presents the exhibit, “You Say You Want A Revolution?: Politics and Protests in the 60s” to illustrate just how painful and controversial political and cultural growth is in a civilized society. Whether it is controversy surrounding Black Lives Matter or the initial opposition to the Civil Rights movement, history repeats itself. Progress in a society is often illustrated by demonstrations and protests, which are as American as apple pie. The new exhibition is inspired by the fact that revolution is part of the human condition and that American protests are artistically rich in material culture.

In our modern history nothing compares to the Sixties. We entered the decade full of idealism and hope, with a charismatic young president inspiring the nation to look to a New Frontier. That optimism was short-lived, however, and over the course of ten years, assassinations and war devastated and divided the country, with cities on fire, it became the decade of protest. It was a time that so acutely illustrates just how painful and controversial political and cultural growth is in a civilized society. We cut our teeth during this decade of Sex, Drugs & Rock ’n’ Roll.

The political movements of the 1960s haven’t changed all that much, as we witness similar causes with different names: women’s rights (gender equality, the reversal of Roe v. Wade), civil rights (redistricting, voter suppression, Black Lives Matter), far-off wars (Ukraine, Israel/Hamas), gay rights (LGBTQ+). The controversies keep pulsing through the 21st century. Progress is not without conflict.

Progress in a society is often illustrated by extreme levels of protesting and conflict, this exhibit elucidates that struggle. Visitors can explore some fascinating artifacts including posters, paintings, flags, clothing, and photographs depicting historical and current social movements pertaining to freedom and democracy, as well as central civil rights issues, including women’s rights and social justice.

About Museum of Democracy

The Wright Family collection is the foundation for the Museum of Democracy. One of the nation’s largest and most comprehensive collections of historical and political campaign memorabilia, it consists of over a million-plus objects, amassed over four decades. Unsurpassed in quality and quantity, it covers all the major presidential campaigns―including every president from Washington to Biden. The collection also features material from major social causes and movements pertaining to freedom and democracy, reflecting the history of politics and political reform in America as well as central civil rights issues such as women’s rights and social justice.