Museums in Michigan: Nonpartisan Havens in a Divided Nation

Article Summary –

A Pew Research Center report indicates that Americans are experiencing increased division and mistrust, yet museums remain trusted nonpartisan institutions. Devon Akmon, director of the Michigan State University Museum, emphasizes the role of museums as crucial social infrastructure, providing spaces for dialogue and helping individuals navigate a complex information landscape. The MSU Museum’s “Blurred Realities” exhibition aims to foster community exploration and promote understanding amidst growing misinformation and polarization.

By Chrystal Blair

A recent report from the Pew Research Center reveals that Americans are increasingly divided, with a growing lack of trust in one another. However, museums remain a trusted institution across political and cultural lines.

Surveys indicate that Americans view museums as reliable, nonpartisan educational sources, a responsibility that museum leaders take seriously.

Devon Akmon, director of the Michigan State University Museum and CoLab Studio, highlights that museums hold a unique position as trusted institutions.

“This is crucial given the current distrust in information nationwide,” Akmon stated. “Museums offer a sacred trust, serving as vital social infrastructure across political divides.”

The MSU Museum presents this through “Blurred Realities,” an exhibition examining technology, bias, and digital media’s impact on beliefs. Opening Jan. 15, it will run through July in East Lansing.

With online public debates often driven by misinformation, museums are embracing their roles as venues for dialogue. Akmon noted the aim is to equip visitors with tools to navigate complex information, not dictate beliefs.

“Creating spaces for our communities to explore and see the impact on their lives is crucial,” Akmon noted. “We aim to provide agency and knowledge for navigating today’s intricate information ecosystem.”

Akmon emphasized that fostering curiosity and dialogue is essential for maintaining public trust and learning to listen across differences, a necessity for democracy.

This story was originally published by Public News Service.