In this exhibition, we explore Richmond’s history of protest from 1775 to present day over a series of five themes: Racial Justice, Gender & LGBTQ Rights, Economic Justice, War & Peace, and Whose History?. These themes encapsulate the foundational struggles over American identity, democracy, and representation in Richmond, Virginia.
- Racial Justice
- The contentions of racism and white supremacy have been central to Richmond’s history. From Gabriel’s Rebellion to the Anti-KKK Lynched Clown protests, the former capital of the confederacy has continued to serve as a fervent protest ground for fighting for racial equality.
- Gender & LGBTQ Rights
- Explores debates surrounding a woman’s right to choose, gender identity, and the rights to full citizenship. From the Women’s Suffrage march to weekly Pro-life vigils into the present day questions about bodily autonomy and full political participation in the body politic remain at the forefront of Richmond protest history.
- Economic Justice
- Economic injustice has affected many living in poverty and and struggling to maintain their lives as Richmond citizens. Including both protest of high taxes and wasteful spending, and unfair labor laws and conditions, Richmond residents have raised their voices in opposition to stand up for themselves and achieve economic justice.
- War & Peace
- Liberty or death? Oppression or riot? Richmond citizens have fought for harmony and surrendered to conflict in the name of war and peace. These are the stories of those that have soldiered on for what they believe in.
- Whose History?
- In the aftermath of the Unite the Right Rally in Charlottesville, debates over use of public space and the memorialization of historical figures have sparked debate across the country. In Richmond, citizens unite with and oppose one another over religion, political party, race and more. Our city’s history tells both sides to the story.