It's a simple truth.
People are different. Throughout history, these differences have been a source of community strength and personal identity. They have also been the basis for discrimination and oppression.
The idea of "race" has been used historically to describe these differences and justify mistreatment of people and even genocide. Today, contemporary scientific understanding of human variation is beginning to challenge "racial" differences, and even question the very concept of race.
RACE: Are We So Different?, developed by the American Anthropological Association in collaboration with the Science Museum of Minnesota, is the first national exhibition to tell the stories of race from the biological, cultural, and historical points of view. Combining these perspectives offers an unprecedented look at race and racism in the United States.
Visitors to RACE: Are We So Different? will meet trained volunteers there to encourage dialogue and reflection, answer questions, and help visitors explore the exhibition. We hope you enjoy getting to know them.
Name: Cassie Ghee
“I am a retired Foreign Service Officer of the Department of State who has served in Mali, Honduras, Canada, Egypt, Lesotho, Uganda, and Trinidad and Tobago. I was born in Baltimore and grew up in New York City before deciding to take the plunge and see the world. Currently I am researching my family history which has included DNA tests. The topic of Race (and genetics) has always interested me. This opportunity to meet with people of diverse backgrounds is ideal to continue my education on the human experience.”
Learn more about the history of race in America, the science of human variation, and more.
Visit understandingrace.org, the RACE Project website >
Download flyer of family activities occuring October 21st at the National Museum of Natural History.
Museum Blog: My journey as a facilitator for RACE: Are We So Different?
Museum Blog: The Locker Project Comes to National Museum of Natural History
Read a special issue of AnthroNotes, the National Museum of Natural History's anthropology publication for educators, published in conjunction with the RACE exhibit (PDF).
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