Smithsonian Exhibit Collects Hopes for the Next 50 Years

Smithsonian Time Capsule Exhibit

• 🏛️ Visitors at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History were invited to share their hopes for the next 50 years in a unique time capsule exhibit.
• ✍️ The exhibit, featuring a mural designed by Katie Costa, collected written wishes and drawings from people of all ages.
• ⏳ These collected wishes will be stored by the Smithsonian's archivists and preserved for 50 years, with the capsule set to reopen on June 19, 2075.

Visitor Hopes and Dreams

• 🕊️ Common themes expressed included a desire for world peace, mutual respect, and an end to war.
• 🤝 Many visitors wished for greater understanding and respect among people, celebrating human diversity and treating each other with kindness.
• 🌍 Hopes extended to societal progress, such as curing cancer, ensuring soldiers return home safely, and creating a world where everyone can achieve their goals.
• 💖 Visitors also expressed wishes for a model country that respects everyone's rights and a healthy planet for future generations.

Civic Engagement and Youth Voice

• 💡 Adam Rozan, Civic Season Director, highlighted that the exhibit reveals how much common ground people share, wanting safe schools and a beautiful society.
• 🚀 Alex Edgar of Made By Us emphasized that young people are civically active and eager to be involved, noting that contributions from all ages, from children's drawings to elders' life lessons, are valuable.
• 🌱 The initiative aims to connect institutions with young adults, recognizing them as both future inheritors and current leaders.
• 🌟 The collected wishes offer a snapshot of societal aspirations, allowing for a future reflection on progress made over the next five decades.