Public Tour of We Demand: A Legacy of Activism in America

Syracuse University Libraries' Special Collections Research Center (SCRC) is offering public tours of the current exhibition, We Demand: A Legacy of Activism in America. The tours will be led by two of the curators of the exhibition, Jana Rosinski, SCRC Instruction and Education Librarian, and Lindy Smith, SCRC Assistant Director. Since this country’s founding, the American people have shaped—and continue to shape—a more just and equitable future. For decades, Syracuse University Libraries’ Special Collections Research Center (SCRC) has collected materials related to histories of activism and social reform in America that illustrate how advancements in rights were made possible by those who came before. This tireless pursuit and ongoing work of individuals and collective groups who have come together to push for change—not always seen during their lifetimes—in the face of extraordinary challenges and circumstances are documented within this exhibition. Traces of resistance and perseverance in the form of posters, protest signs, photographs, demands, newsletters, and more represent the critical role of activism in challenging injustice and securing greater freedoms in the United States. We invite you to consider which legacies of activism have shaped your own experiences, what movements and causes resonate with you, and which stories remain to be told. Tours are free and open to the public. Spots are limited, so registration is required. REGISTER HERE The exhibition will be on view at the Special Collections Research Center, Bird Library, 6th floor gallery through the end of December 2026. If you require an accommodation, please email Max Wagh, mlwagh@syr.edu.