Experience the Year of Free Speech at Our Old City Museum
Welcome to the National Liberty Museum, where history comes alive and the past meets the present in a celebration of liberty and free expression. Here in Philadelphia’s historic Old City, our museum and current slate of exhibitions stand as a testament to the enduring power of free speech throughout the ages. This year, we are celebrating the Year of Free Speech—an immersive experience that explores the right to freedom of expression. Through interactive exhibits, dynamic installations, and thought-provoking displays, visitors who join us can delve deeply into the stories, images, and experiences that continue to inspire—and challenge—our thoughts about liberty.
Why Free Speech?
The last year has been a whirlwind of change both politically and culturally. It is in these times of uncertainty and division that a robust, open dialogue is most important. But today, it often feels like all sides of the political spectrum are increasingly calling for censorship, shouting down dissenting voices and fresh perspectives. The National Liberty Museum is a beacon, a blazing torch that draws freethinkers from far and wide to a space where liberty lives on and thought-provoking, challenging discussion is not only welcome but encouraged. In celebration of the fundamental right to express oneself, the National Liberty Museum launched the Year of Free Speech—a series of three distinct, but interrelated exhibitions all dedicated to that same concept.
Free Speech: Our Right, Our Responsibility
Free Speech: Our Right, Our Responsibility is the cornerstone exhibition at our Old City museum. Patrons can learn about pivotal moments in history where free speech shaped societies, consider the complex implications of liberty today, and speculate on the impact of this right on future generations. As an essential pillar of democracy, free speech only becomes more and more controversial and essential with every passing day. Uncover the different ways that speech has evolved in the era of social media, cancel culture, and campus protests.
Word Powered: Exploring Free Speech Through Art
Through a diverse collection of works from acclaimed artists, Word Powered: Exploring Free Speech Through Art invites visitors to delve into the nuances of free speech. Guests can explore this right’s historical significance, its impact on modern society, and the responsibility that accompanies it. This immersive experience is designed to provoke thought and encourage meaningful dialogue, highlighting the vital role of art in reflecting and shaping the social and political landscape of today. The exhibition shows that free speech extends beyond the spoken word, and into the visual arts as well.
Let’s Talk: Confronting What Divides Us
Let’s Talk: Confronting What Divides Us is the newest exhibition in the Year of Free Speech series at the National Liberty Museum. In this experience, we aim to boldly address the polarizing issues that often fragment our society. Through an exploration of the most divisive topics of our time, we seek to uncover the common ground hidden beneath the tangled web of polarization. By fostering an environment of open dialogue, we encourage guests and visitors to explore diverse perspectives from new angles in a refreshing and balanced way. This powerful exhibition not only aims to educate, but empower individuals to become active participants in the ongoing conversation about what unites and separates us as a global community.
Free Speech Lives at this Old City Museum
The National Liberty Museum is a space where history and contemporary issues intersect, encouraging visitors to reflect on their role in promoting and protecting the liberties we enjoy today. Through our commitment to democracy, freedom, and diversity of thought, we have something to offer every visitor. Families, social studies classes, university students, history buffs, and anyone else looking to have their perspectives expanded are welcome to join us at our Old City museum location. Purchase your tickets here and prepare for a unique perspective that only NLM can provide. Visit us soon to enjoy all three exhibitions at once and enjoy the full Year of Free Speech experience!
