Heathsville, Va. — Stories of opportunity, community and resilience are brought to life at Northumberland Public Library in “We The People: The World in Our Commonwealth.” The exhibition, curated by the Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC), brings together distinct voices and perspectives on the immigrant experience of Virginians. On view August 31st through October 12th this traveling version of “We The People” features panels, images and curation that encapsulate the core of the exhibition as displayed at the VMHC — a signature component of the multi-year commemoration of the 250th anniversary of America.
“We The People” presents the deeply personal narratives of individuals born across the world who sought freedom, opportunity, and refuge by immigrating to the United States. Pairing historic accounts with contemporary stories, the exhibition highlights the profound way immigrants have both shaped and been shaped by Virginia and this nation.
“With the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026, collectively we must embrace the historic moment — extraordinary in our lifetimes — and act upon it by together renewing our commitment to the unfinished pursuit of A More Perfect Union,” said Jamie Bosket, president and CEO of the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. “We invite visitors and the nation to reflect deeply on our past and invest with great purpose in our future by using Virginia history as a lens into our American journey. ‘We The People,’ and the people highlighted in this ambitious exhibition, are an essential part of the making of this Commonwealth.”
The exhibition is the fruition of a five-year collaborative endeavor. Extensive interviews and story-gathering with many of the people featured in the exhibition and their descendants ensured authenticity at every stage of the planning process, while multiple advisory councils composed of community members and subject matter experts provided context and guidance. The result is a rich tapestry of experiences.
“‘We The People: The World in Our Commonwealth’ explores the complex history of immigration to Virginia by telling the stories of people who left their country and made Virginia home. At a time when immigration is ever-present in the news, it is my hope that everyone who visits the exhibition will see a little of their own history in the experiences of Virginia immigrants,” said Julie Kemper, curator of “We The People.”
One of the leading catalysts for semiquincentennial commemorations in Virginia and beyond, VMHC has played a key role in shaping the Commonwealth’s 250th anniversary efforts. The Museum was among the first institutions to convene statewide history leaders and encouraged the Virginia General Assembly to found the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commemoration (VA250). In July 2023, VMHC announced a comprehensive program for the anniversary, including two marquee exhibitions, “We The People: The World in Our Commonwealth” and “Give Me Liberty: Virginia & The Forging of a Nation,” which opened in March 2025 as the first major exhibition in the nation to mark the milestone anniversary.
