Sponsored in part by Ventura Village, the exhibit welcomes all neighbors near and far!
By THE NORWEGIAN AMERICAN
Special to the alley
When Lori Ann Reinhall, editor-in-chief of The Norwegian American (norwegianamerican.com), Norway House’s official publication, graduated from college, she decided to visit Washington, D.C., to explore the history of the United States. More recently, she visited Eidsvoll, Norway, where the Norwegian Constitution was signed in 1814. Reinhall realized she had a story to share.
On May 3, a new exhibit opened at Norway House called “Democracy Center” with the goal of inspiring all those who visit to learn about the democratic societies of the United States and Norway. The exhibit is designed to inspire anyone who comes to see it, with a special emphasis on children and families.
“When I was at Eidsvoll, I was so impressed by all the activities they had for children at the visitor center there. I realized how important it is to get kids interested in the democratic process at a young age,” says Reinhall.
The exhibit at Norway House is in part funded by the Ventura Village Neighborhood Association, and there is strong outreach to the neighborhood. Because of its ethnic diversity, posters have been translated into Spanish and Somali, with plans to also include Ojibwe and Dakota.
At the Democracy Center, you will see facsimiles of U.S. and Norwegian founding documents and learn about their basic tenets. The story of Eidsvoll is told in pictures, and an interactive world map gives everyone the opportunity to think about their own heritage and path toward life in the United States.
Most of all, there is something for schoolchildren of all ages in the Kids’ Corner, including storytelling coloring, songs, crafts, and a ballot box. These activities are also available online at demcocracy.norwegianamerican.com to enjoy anywhere.
“The Democracy Center is the most promising opportunity I’ve had to build strong relationships with our community and highlight the value of civic engagement to audiences of all ages,” says Joseph Grødahl, director of operations and programs at Norway House.
The Democracy Center exhibit will run through July 28 at Norway House, located at 913 East Franklin Avenue. For opening hours and to learn more about their programs, visit norwayhouse.org.
