RACE: Are We So Different? | The Exhibit

Located in Kahn Hall from September 27, 2008 through January 4, 2009

At RACE: Are We So Different?, race is investigated through many mediums, including video, photographs, many by noted Minnesota-based photographer Wing Young Huie, and at hands-on computer simulations. For instance, visitors are invited to scan their skin. These images will appear on the screen next to skin images from dozens of other visitors. Questions inserted on the screen will ask each participant to consider what skin shade reveals about themselves and others.

Then, continue to ponder the impact of race at interactive "History Stations." These theme-based areas display artifacts that help put race into a historical context. In addition, provocative quotes and first-person narratives about the American experience are cleverly distributed throughout the exhibit, providing further opportunities to take a multifaceted look at race in America.

At the "RACE Resource Center" you will find children's books, access to the RACE project website, short videos, and books and articles about race. The Resource Center provides a respite where you can sit, read, talk, and consider the powerful ideas in the exhibit. There is also a children's play area that incorporates race issues into educational games and toys. Also, offer your comments, and read the responses of others, at one of the four "Feedback Stations."

RACE: Are We So Different? is a 360 degree look into race yesterday, today, and tomorrow. It is a hands-on, realistic and timely look at the race issues affecting us all. The exhibit doesn't preach; instead, it offers opportunities to explore evidence drawn from leading experts and scientists about our origins as human beings.