We The People: The World in Our Commonwealth

This exhibition explores the many people who, over centuries, have made Virginia the unique place it is in America and in the world, and the dramatic impact of the immigrant experience throughout Virginia’s history as people arrived from the four corners of the globe. Stories of opportunity, community and resilience are brought to life through more than 100 voices speaking to distinct perspectives and a rich tapestry of experiences. We The People: The World in Our Commonwealth presents the deeply personal narratives of individuals born in 68 countries who sought freedom, opportunity, and refuge by immigrating to the United States. Immersive environments, historical objects, powerful images, and multimedia stations reveal immigrant experiences of leaving home, settling in an unfamiliar place, and becoming Virginians. Pairing historic accounts with contemporary stories, the exhibition highlights the profound way immigrants have both shaped and been shaped by Virginia and this nation. The exhibition is the fruition of a five-year collaborative endeavor. Extensive interviews and story-gathering with many of the people featured in the exhibition and their descendants ensured authenticity at every stage of the planning process, while multiple advisory councils composed of community members and subject matter experts provided context and guidance. We The People is a signature component of the VMHC’s multi-year 250th Initiative.