Shirley Chisholm announcing her candidacy for President
NYC Newswire
Shirley Chisholm announcing her candidacy for President
Celebrating more than a century as New York’s storyteller, the Museum of the City of New York presents, Changing the Face of Democracy: Shirley Chisholm at 100, which is on view through July 20, 2025. As the first major museum presentation dedicated to the legendary Shirley Chisholm, it delves into the life and legacy of this trailblazing legislator, whose contributions to our nation’s public policy endure today.
Celebrating Shirley Chisholm at 100
The Museum of the City of New York is proud to present Changing the Face of Democracy: Shirley Chisholm at 100, a major exhibition running through July 20, 2025. This exhibit marks the first time a major museum has dedicated a presentation to the legendary Shirley Chisholm, a trailblazing legislator whose contributions to public policy continue to resonate in the modern era.
Honoring Chisholm's Centennial
Changing the Face of Democracy commemorates the centennial of Shirley Chisholm’s birth. Through this exhibition, the Museum aims to reignite the passion for democratic engagement that defined Chisholm's career. Visitors are invited to explore Chisholm's life in the Museum's North Gallery, with bilingual text available in English and Spanish.
A Collaborative Tribute to a Political Pioneer
In collaboration with the Shirley Chisholm Project on Brooklyn Women’s Activism at Brooklyn College, this exhibition delves into three central themes: Brooklyn Life, Political Career, and Legacy. Through historical artifacts, photographs, archival footage, and artwork, the exhibition paints a vivid picture of Chisholm’s remarkable journey.
Support from Prominent Figures
The exhibition is backed by an esteemed Honorary Committee, including Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton, Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, and activists like Gloria Steinem. Together, they help highlight the legacy of the first Black woman elected to Congress and her groundbreaking 1972 presidential campaign, demonstrating how Chisholm reshaped American democracy for future generations.
Exhibition Insights from Curators
Dr. Sarah Seidman, the Puffin Foundation Curator of Social Activism, co-curated this exhibition. She emphasizes Chisholm's lasting impact on issues such as reproductive justice, food insecurity, and voting rights. Co-curator Dr. Zinga A. Fraser adds that the exhibition incorporates oral histories that underscore Chisholm’s global influence, continuing to inspire political engagement today.
Exhibition Highlights
The exhibition showcases several extraordinary pieces, including:
- Rare paintings by Faith Ringgold from the 1970s
- A costume worn by Regina King in the 2024 Netflix film Shirley
- A vibrant Carnival headdress designed by Kenneth Antoine
- Memorabilia from Chisholm’s presidential campaign
- A portrait of Chisholm by Sherman Beck
- Photographs and mementos from Chisholm’s early life
- Materials from her first political campaign to challenge machine politics in Brooklyn
Oral Histories: Personal Reflections on Chisholm’s Legacy
Incorporating contemporary perspectives from notable figures like Gloria Steinem, Sonia Sanchez, and David Dinkins, the oral histories in the exhibition provide personal insights into Chisholm’s influence. These stories highlight how she continues to inspire activists and politicians alike.
Special Programming and Events
The Museum will host several public programs to complement the exhibition, including panel discussions, film screenings, and educational events. Highlights include a gathering around U.S. Election Day 2024 and a family-friendly program on Chisholm’s birthday, November 30, 2024. Additionally, New York on Film: The Fight for Rights will explore Chisholm's role alongside civil rights leader Bayard Rustin through film screenings and performances.
Educational Initiatives for Students and Teachers
The Museum’s Frederick A.O. Schwarz Education Center will organize field trips and professional development seminars to connect students and teachers with the values and achievements that defined Chisholm’s life and work. More details will be available at the Museum's website.
Museum Leadership on Chisholm’s Legacy
Stephanie Hill Wilchfort, the Ronay Menschel Director and President of the Museum of the City of New York, expressed pride in honoring Chisholm. She hopes the exhibition and related programming will connect New Yorkers to their political history and inspire greater civic engagement.
Design and Support for the Exhibition
The exhibition was co-curated by Dr. Zinga A. Fraser and Dr. Sarah Seidman, with design by WSDIA (We Should Do It All). It is supported by the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Puffin Foundation, the Lily Auchincloss Foundation, and other generous sponsors.
About the Museum of the City of New York
The Museum of the City of New York has been New York’s storyteller for over 100 years. Known for groundbreaking exhibitions, the Museum fosters an understanding of urban life in one of the world’s most influential cities. Recognized by Time Out New York as the "Best Museum" in 2021, the Museum continues to offer award-winning content through its physical and digital platforms.
For more details, visit www.mcny.org or follow the Museum on social media.
