The Daniel K. Inouye National Center for the Preservation of Democracy at the Japanese American National Museum is hosting two events in Los Angeles to observe Civic Season, an initiative connecting Juneteenth and July 4. On June 27 and June 28, the organization will present documentary screenings, workshops, and community-focused programming aimed at exploring historical and future American narratives. Tickets and registration details for these events are available at janm.org/democracy/democracy-center-events.
Did You Know? Civic Season is a national movement designed to bridge the gap between America’s oldest and newest federal holidays, spanning the period from Juneteenth to July 4.
What is planned for the Democracy Center events?
On Saturday, June 27, the Democracy Center at 100 N. Central Ave. in Little Tokyo will host a screening of the short documentary “Unseen Territories” from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The film features 14 artists who explore the American flag through personal and colonial perspectives. Following the screening, director Sydney Galindo and featured artist Jesus Orozco will lead a discussion on the creative process. The event concludes with a workshop where attendees can create their own interpretations of the American flag.
What is happening at the Huntington?
On Sunday, June 28, the Japanese American National Museum will participate as a community partner in the “This Land Is …” Community Festival at The Huntington, located at 1151 Oxford Rd. in San Marino. The festival features performances, storytelling, and art-making activities. Visitors can engage with the Democracy Center’s “Wish Wall for the 250th” and view a special screening of “Nobuko Miyamoto: A Song in Movement.”
Expert Insight: By framing these events around the concept of a 250th anniversary, the organizers are placing contemporary art and personal expression within a long-term historical context. This suggests that the programming may serve as a precursor to larger public conversations regarding national identity as the country approaches its semiquincentennial milestone.
What might happen next?
Following these events, it is possible that the Democracy Center will continue to use community-driven art projects, such as the flag-making workshop and the Wish Wall, to gather public perspectives for future exhibits. As the festival reflects on 250 years of American history, the participation of local artists could lead to expanded collaborations between cultural institutions and contemporary creators looking to address colonial iconography in public spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I purchase tickets for these events?
Tickets are available at janm.org/democracy/democracy-center-events.
What is the focus of the documentary “Unseen Territories”?
The film highlights 14 artists who examine and reimagine the American flag through personal perspectives, focusing on colonial iconography and its imprint on public space.
Is the event at The Huntington open to the public?
Yes, the museum is participating as a community partner at the “This Land Is …” Community Festival, which includes various public activities like performances, art making, and film screenings.
How do you think personal creative interpretations of national symbols affect our understanding of history?
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