Explore “Voices and Votes: Democracy in America” at the Library
The Lee County Library System is pleased to announce that the Cape Coral-Lee County Public Library has been selected to receive a grant through the Smithsonian’s Museum on Main Street program and Florida Humanities to host the traveling exhibit “Voices and Votes: Democracy in America” from Sept. 14 to Nov. 8, 2024. Lee County is one of five Florida communities to host “Voices and Votes.”
“Voices and Votes” explores the nearly 250-year-old American experiment of a government “of, by and for the people” and the action, reaction, vision, and revision that democracy demands as Americans continue to ask and answer questions that shape the country. Through photographs, archival video, personal stories, interactive media and historical objects, the exhibit traces the ever-evolving story of democracy from revolution and suffrage to civil rights and casting ballots.
“The Cape Coral-Lee County Public Library team is excited to host the exhibit and partner with local organizations to offer a variety of fun and informative programming for all ages that connects to the exhibition’s themes of civic responsibility, awareness and engagement,” Library Director Mindi Simon said.
Pre-exhibition programming begins in May with additional programs planned in September and October. Military Appreciation Month is the focus of May’s programs:
- 6 p. m. Tuesday, May 7 – “The Fighting Baileys: Florida’s Black Military Experience,” by James Abraham
- 3 p.m. Tuesday, May 14 – “Beyond the Homefront: Untold Stories of WWII Heroes,” by Charley Valera
- 3 p.m. Thursday, May 16 – “Military Intelligence in Early US History,” by Thomas Eastwood
The exhibition and all programming will be free and open to the public. Program announcements will appear on the library event calendar at leelibrary.net/events.
“Voices and Votes” is based on an exhibition currently on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History called American Democracy: A Great Leap of Faith and is part of the Museum on Main Street outreach program.
Schools and community groups are encouraged to contact the library to schedule exhibit tours as guides and special activities may be available during their visit. Join us in celebrating our community and be part of this enriching experience that explores the democracy and the power of voting.
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In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Lee County will not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities in its services, programs or activities. To request an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication or a reasonable modification to participate, contact Raphaela Morais-Peroba, 239-533-8782, Florida Relay Service 711, or rperoba@leegov.com. Accommodation will be provided at no cost to the requester. Requests should be made at least five business days in advance.
