Wing Luke Museum Unveils 'Confronting Hate Together' Exhibit In A Stand Against Bigotry

In a significant move towards fostering community solidarity and addressing the surge in hate crimes, the Black Heritage Society of Washington State, the Washington State Jewish Historical Society, and the Wing Luke Museum have come together to unveil an impactful exhibit titled "Confronting Hate Together." Scheduled to open on May 22, 2024, at the Wing Luke Museum, this exhibit is a collaborative effort aimed at challenging the biases and bigotry that fuel division and hatred across communities.

Drawing inspiration from the 2022 "Confronting Hate 1937-1952" exhibit curated by the New-York Historical Society, "Confronting Hate Together" offers a poignant contemporary examination of racism, antisemitism, hate, and bigotry through a regional lens. The exhibit aims to highlight the unique stories, perspectives, and histories of this area with a clear goal: to educate communities and empower them to address the escalating issues of hate and racial violence prevalent today.

Accompanying the exhibit is a four-part podcast series under the same name, "Confronting Hate Together," alongside plans for public programs, community pop-up installations, and a digital version of the exhibit. This comprehensive approach underscores a shared commitment among the organizing bodies towards unity, solidarity, and proactive engagement against hate.

"Confronting Hate Together is such an ambitious and timely project," stated the group in a joint announcement. They emphasized the critical need for such initiatives in light of increasing antisemitism, worsening racism against African Americans, and growing anti-Asian sentiments. The organizers believe that while global events continue to influence societal attitudes, real change begins at the local level through unified efforts.

The Black Heritage Society of Washington State has been at the forefront of preserving and sharing the rich history and legacy of Black individuals across Washington State. As an advocate for recognizing culturally significant heritage sites statewide, BHS plays a crucial role in maintaining historical narratives.

The Washington State Jewish Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of Jewish life in Washington State. By fostering awareness and appreciation for the diverse culture and contributions of Jews, past and present, WSJHS serves as a vital educational resource.

The Wing Luke Museum connects individuals to the vibrant history, cultures, and art of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. As a Smithsonian Affiliate and the only pan-Asian American Museum in the nation, it stands as a beacon for racial and social equity through storytelling.

Media representatives are invited to an exclusive advance screening of the exhibit on Tuesday, May 14. For further details or inquiries, please reach out to Steve McLean at [email protected] or Isabel Mata at [email protected].

This collaborative effort represents not just an exhibition but a movement towards understanding, education, and action against hate. By bringing together diverse communities through shared histories and experiences, "Confronting Hate Together" aims to create a foundation for dialogue, learning, and collective resistance against bigotry in all its forms.