Richmond Uprising – 1863 and today

In both the Richmond Bread Riot of 1863 and the ongoing protests against police brutality, we hear the voice of people who suffer from inequitable systems – in 1863, it was food distribution and inflation; now, it is systemic racism in the law enforcement and criminal justice system. Though not the same, placing the two protests side-by-side suggests enduring questions about protesting in America. Why are people compelled to do it? What happens when those in authority do not listen to the cries of their citizens? Is there a legitimate or illegitimate way to protest? What kind of solutions can protestors force authorities to concede, if any? Join us in thinking about these questions in this virtual exhibit.