💛 A quick favor, if you've got a second.
We're really happy that you chose to read one of our stories and sincerely hope you'll stick around to read more. We took our paywall down — for now — but that won't last forever, and when the gate goes back up, we'd love for you to already be on the inside.
It's free. So please enter your email here and don't forget to like and follow us on all of your favorite Social Media platforms!
The Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History is under renewed examination for how its permanent exhibitions address issues of race, gender and social activism. A review of the museum’s Entertainment Nation Exhibit, which showcases sports, television and music artifacts, reveals extensive coverage of political protests and social movements throughout American culture.
The exhibit includes a Phoenix Suns basketball jersey from the team’s 2010 protest against Arizona’s immigration law. An accompanying placard notes that the Suns challenged the legislation, which gave police authority to question individuals about immigration status, describing it as a violation of equal protection principles.
Other displays connect entertainment to social movements, including an X-Men costume worn by actress Halle Berry linked to the 2014 Black Lives Matter movement. A separate exhibition honors the television series “Glee,” detailing its storyline about a diverse high school choir navigating identity and acceptance.
The museum also features memorabilia from NBA legend Bill Russell, emphasizing his civil rights activism alongside his five championships with the Boston Celtics and his role in organizing the first NBA game boycott in 1961. Additional items include a jersey from Jason Collins, the first active openly gay NBA player, and artifacts from rapper Nipsey Hussle’s career highlighting his community activism and entrepreneurship in Los Angeles.
The Smithsonian Institution did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the exhibit’s curatorial approach.
More Stories
South Korea Seeks Diplomatic Opening as Trump Scales Back Military Exercises with Seoul
New York Lawmaker Faces Criticism for Linking Shoplifting to ‘Biological Need’
Mother and Daughter Ordered to Change Shirts at WNBA Game After Fan Complaint