Join the Special Collections Research Center for a tour of our current exhibition, We Demand: A Legacy of Activism in America, led by two of its co-curators, Jana Rosinski and Lindy Smith.

Since this country’s founding, the American people have shaped—and continue to shape—a more just and equitable future. For decades, Syracuse University Libraries’ Special Collections Research Center (SCRC) has collected materials related to histories of activism and social reform in America that illustrate how advancements in rights were made possible by those who came before. This tireless pursuit and ongoing work of individuals and collective groups who have come together to push for change—not always seen during their lifetimes—in the face of extraordinary challenges and circumstances are documented within this exhibition. Traces of resistance and perseverance in the form of posters, protest signs, photographs, demands, newsletters and more represent the critical role of activism in challenging injustice and securing greater freedoms in the United States. We invite you to consider which legacies of activism have shaped your own experiences, what movements and causes resonate with you, and which stories remain to be told.

Tours are free and open to the public. Spots are limited, so select a date and register today. If you require an accommodation, please email Max Wagh, mlwagh@syr.edu.

• Thursday, July 30, 2026 from 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
• Saturday, September 19, 2026 from 10:00 am – 11:30 am
• Wednesday, November 18, 2026 from 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm