If you have any tangible memories from your life in 2020, don’t throw them out. HistoryMiami is collecting historical items from this time and is asking Miami residents for help.
The Smithsonian Affiliate in downtown Miami has issued a call for Miamians to share stories and items from 2020 for its Collecting 2020 project. The initiative will preserve a record of life in Miami through community submissions that highlight how Miamians have been affected by and responded to 2020 major events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the protests for racial justice, and local and national elections.
“The events of this year are historic moments that will never be forgotten,” said Jorge Zamanillo, executive director of HistoryMiami Museum. “Our museum is committed to this collaborative effort to document the history of Miami and Miamians during this unheralded year.”
So far, the museum has collected a Miami HEAT jersey emblazoned with “Black Lives Matter,” and a collection of materials from national and local political races, which resulted in the history-making election of Miami-Dade County’s first female mayor.
Collecting 2020 is already underway with headline-making items such as the Grim Reaper costume, worn by attorney Daniel Uhlfelder, whose claim to fame was walking public beaches over the summer, attempting to warn people of the dangers of public gatherings amid COVID-19. HistoryMiami also secured a Miami HEAT jersey emblazoned with “Black Lives Matter,” and a collection of materials from national and local political races, which resulted in the history-making election of Miami-Dade County’s first female Mayor.
In addition, locals are also invited to contribute written and video stories about 2020 to its Miami Stories project, which has collected stories about Miami’s past, present, and future for more than a decade. These stories are added to the museum’s archive, and shared online and with local media outlets.
“At HistoryMiami Museum, we value everyone’s story,” said Michael Knoll, director of Curatorial Affairs and chief curator. “Partnering with the community on this initiative is of paramount importance to preserving and sharing our city’s stories, especially with future generations.”
Collected stories and materials will be added to HistoryMiami’s permanent collection. No drop-offs or unsolicited donations through mail or in person will be accepted. To learn more about Collecting 2020 and learn about submitting, click here.
