Smithsonian History Museum Highlights Social Justice Themes in Pop Culture Exhibits

A virtual walkthrough of the Smithsonian National Museum of American History’s Entertainment Nation exhibit reveals a series of installations that interpret popular culture through a lens of minority oppression and activism. One case highlights a Phoenix Suns jersey from a 2010 protest opposing Arizona’s immigration enforcement, while another displays a mannequin head wearing the hijab of the first Muslim woman to claim a major ice-skating championship.

A plaque connects the 2014 X-Men movie to the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement, and a display celebrates the TV series Glee for its portrayal of diverse identities. Sports history is reframed as well, with Bill Russell’s achievements paired with his 1961 NBA boycott, and a collection of Nipsey Hussle’s personal items emphasizing his political and entrepreneurial legacy. Additional artifacts include Jason Collins’s openly gay NBA jersey, Dr. Anthony Fauci’s ceremonial baseball hat, and a skateboard illustrating challenges faced by female skaters. One outlet documented the tour and reached out to the Smithsonian for comment, which was not provided.