Dec
10

24 Hours in a time of change: a snapshot of American

Graphic image for "24 Hours in a Time of Change"

On December 11, 2020, ten Smithsonian museums and units are taking a snapshot of this moment in history, offering a moment for reflection, and sharing perspectives. Join us in this effort to document a day in the life of our nation—a chance to consider, together, where we’ve been and where we’re going. 

Dear Colleagues,

This year has been unlike any other in recent history, bringing unprecedented circumstances and challenges to all Americans. As 2020 comes to a close, I would like to invite you to join us as the Smithsonian hosts a daylong program to convene a national conversation about what life has been like during this moment in history. Ten Smithsonian museums and cultural centers will come together Friday, Dec. 11, for “24 Hours in a Time of Change.” Throughout the day, the Smithsonian will offer virtual programs centered around contemporary issues, from the COVID-19 pandemic to racial injustice, and invite the public to reflect on and share their personal experiences grappling with the challenges we face today.

By collecting stories from the public, “24 Hours in a Time of Change” seeks to bring people together through a national dialogue and help the Smithsonian capture a snapshot of a day in the life of the nation. The website 24hours.si.edu will feature a series of prompts to guide people’s reflections, posing questions such as What traditions have you and your family started this year? What message would you send to the future about life in these changing times? and How is art shaping your response to this moment? Select responses will be featured on the program website throughout the day, and they will be archived to help Smithsonian curators build collections related to this moment in history.

In addition to the digital conversation, the 10 participating museums and centers will host a series of virtual recorded and live programs sharing different perspectives on contemporary issues throughout the day. A full schedule can be found online.

I hope that you will join us and share your thoughts marking an important chapter in the story of America.

Sincerely,

Lonnie Bunch
Secretary

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Posted: 10 December 2020
About the Author:

Lonnie G. Bunch III is the 14th Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. He was the founding director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture and is the first historian to be Secretary of the Institution.