Dec. 7, 2020
24 Hours in a Time of Change Features Virtual Programming From Museums and Invites the Public To Share Their Stories
This year has been unlike any other in recent history, bringing many unprecedented circumstances and challenges. As 2020 comes to a close, the Smithsonian will host a daylong program convening a national conversation about what life has been like for Americans during this moment in history. Ten Smithsonian museums and cultural centers will come together Friday, Dec. 11, to host “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 of 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. On the website 24hours.si.edu, users can find a series of prompts to guide their reflections, posing questions like What traditions have you and your family started this year? What message would you send your future self about your 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. The public can see highlighted stories on the website or on social media with the hashtag #Smithsonian24Hours.
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. Highlights include:
All times are Eastern Standard Time.
Media Only:
Alex Fairchild; (202) 256-8735; fairchilda@si.edu
Madeleine Weyand-Geise; (202) 802-8136; weyand-geisem@si.edu
Marcia Baird Burris; (202) 320-1735 (cell); bairdburrism@si.edu
Media Website:
https://newsdesk.si.edu; http://anacostia.si.edu/newsroom