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Many Americans can recall the faint echo of the familiar opening line of the U.S. Constitution “We the people…” from past years of education. However, America’s relatively short journey, which has been plagued by issues of racism and sexism, has left the meaning of “We” slightly ambiguous.
“World War II was a pivotal moment in history where we redefined what it means to be an American citizen,” Nora Berger-Green, the director of theater programs and co-artistic director at the National Constitution Center in Old City, said.
The National Constitution Center celebrated the anniversary of the ending of World War II with a preview of the new fall exhibit “Fighting for Democracy: Who is ‘We’ in ‘We the People’?” with a press event last month. This exhibit, which launches Oct. 14 and runs through Jan. 16, 2012, will portray life during the World War II era using aspects of both museum and theater.
South Philadelphia’s Jihad Milhem of Point Breeze and Taysha Canales of Passyunk Square will offer their artistic talent as characters in the live show during the 25-minute theatrical component that complements the traveling exhibition from Los Angeles’ Japanese American National Museum. The actors will portray multiple characters, with three performers participating in each show.
Canales, a recent Arcadia University graduate, won a Certificate of Merit for Excellence in Ensemble Acting from the Kennedy Center last year. Milhem can be seen prior to the exhibit in Bright Light Theatre Co.’s Philadelphia Fringe Festival production “All Places From Here” Sept. 2 to 17 at The Loading Dock in Fishtown.
Through the eyes of seven individuals who struggle to grasp the equality of American democracy, the exhibit shares an array of diverse characters. These range from a Navajo Code Talker named Carl Gorman to Frances Slanger, a Jewish American nurse who died while serving in Europe.
“’Fighting for Democracy’ puts the spotlight on ordinary citizens with extraordinary legacies,” National Constitution Center CEO and president David Eisner said at the press event.
By examining real American heroes who were the victims of racial and gender discrimination, the exhibit examines lesser-known, yet important figures of the nation’s history.
“I think this exhibit takes a look at seven individuals who stood up for our country at a time when they weren’t necessarily given the same, equal rights,” Allison Heishman, the National Constitution Center’s theater programs manager, said.
Because of the importance of the message of this exhibit, the location will present it at no cost, excluding the museum’s admission fee.
“For us, the themes that we face today are relatable to the World War II era … we have a lot of discussion with the theme of democracy, but no solution,” Berger-Green said.
The exhibit is relevant to contemporary times as Americans still feel the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001 tragedy. Issues such as racial profiling and discrimination toward minorities have only increased. Awareness for other ethnicities can prevent animosity.
“I think South Philadelphians especially should come see this because South Philadelphia is such a diverse area. [The exhibit] is a really incredible way of opening your eyes to different cultures and experiences,” Heishman, a resident of Seventh and Emily streets, said.
Unlike other exhibits, "Fighting for Democracy" provides an interactive element for its viewers.
“This isn’t a passive experience for the audience,” David Bradley, the director of "Fighting for Democracy," said at the press event.
Through the usage of technology, such as iPads, visitors can examine deeper into the seven lives. In addition, the exhibit allows for open discussions after the theater performance to address the societal issues presented. Visitors are encouraged to take an active role to make change like the characters did.
“You don’t have to be famous or connected to do something for your country,” Berger-Green said.
Contact the South Philly Review at editor@southphillyreview.com.
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