The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) announced on Mar. 12 that it is hosting the national traveling exhibition, Declaration 1776: The Big Bang of Modern Democracy, at its Warwick Campus from March 9 through April 24.
The exhibition marks the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States and aims to highlight the global influence and ongoing relevance of the Declaration of Independence. Developed by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History and funded by the Sullivan Foundation, it is free and open to the public.
Declaration 1776 features seven illustrated panels with historical documents, artwork, and primary sources. These panels trace how the ideals set forth in the Declaration have shaped American history and inspired movements for freedom worldwide. The exhibition begins with the events of 1776, focusing on how governments derive power from citizens’ consent, and continues to show how these principles have been invoked over time to expand equality.
“As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, this exhibition offers an opportunity for our students and community to reflect on both the promise and dynamism of the Declaration of Independence,” said Rosemary A. Costigan, president of CCRI. “Community colleges are places where civic learning and open dialogue thrive, and we are proud to bring this important exhibition to Rhode Island.”
To further engage visitors, CCRI faculty will host public lectures related to themes from the American Revolution. Professors Jack Every and Suzanne McCormack will discuss the historical context and significance of the Declaration on April 8. On April 15, Professor Kathy Blessing will present a lecture about Loyalist experiences during the Revolution.
Costigan became both CCRI’s sixth president and its first alumna in that role according to the official website. The college supports community development through initiatives such as Rhode Island Promise, which provides free tuition for recent high school graduates according to its official website. CCRI maintains campuses in Warwick, Lincoln, Providence, Newport, as well as education centers in Westerly and Woonsocket according to its official website.
The college offers more than 200 degree and certificate programs according to its official website, aiming to deliver accessible higher education and career training across Rhode Island according to its official website. In addition to multiple campuses statewide, CCRI supports student success through transfer agreements with over 120 universities according to its official website.
