ON DISPLAY IN SECOND FLOOR HALLWAY

Revolutionary Maryland: Freedom of the Press Then and Now

Pop-Up Exhibit at Chesapeake Arts Center

March 17-March 30, 2026

Main Education Building - 2nd Floor Hallway

Protected by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, freedom of the press is crucial for the functioning of a healthy American democracy. The press provides diverse perspectives on important issues, empowering the public to make informed decisions. In this way, a free press supports the very foundation of American democracy by ensuring an informed and engaged citizenry.

The current rise in hate speech, disinformation, and deadly attacks against journalists threaten freedom of the press on a global level. The Revolutionary Maryland: Freedom of the Press Then and Now traveling exhibition explores the evolution of one of our most important American freedoms from its earliest incarnation in the Maryland Colony to its role in contemporary society. This exhibit is one element of a multi-pronged project designed to encourage all citizens to think critically about the roles of a free press to self-government in democracy.

Over the course of 2026, the exhibition will travel to eight locations across the state and will feature complementary humanities programs and educational initiatives about this essential American freedom.

Learn more and stay up to date on related events on Maryland Humanities website.