Published October 11, 2024
“Sorting Out Race,” a traveling exhibit from Bethel College’s Kauffman Museum, will be on display at the DC3 Library until Dec. 1. [Photo by Lance Ziesch]
Through a grant from Humanities Kansas, the Dodge City Community College (DC3) Library and Dodge City Public Library are hosting an exhibit titled “Sorting Out Race: Examining Racial Identity & Stereotypes in Thrift Store Donations,” from now until Dec. 1.
The “Sorting Out Race” exhibit, which is on loan to DC3 from Bethel College’s Kauffman Museum, in North Newton, Kan., is modeled after a typical community thrift store and challenges people to examine the items on its shelves that contain racial imagery.
“The Kauffman exhibit’s visual presentation offers a fresh perspective on familiar objects and ideas, making it accessible to both students and the wider community without the need for travel,” Holly Mercer, DC3 Library Director, said. “It also demonstrates the innovative ways in which libraries can present information and encourage analytical, reflective thinking. By hosting a professionally curated museum exhibit, our library transforms into a multifaceted learning space.”
While viewing the “Sorting Out Race” exhibit, Mercer said she hopes visitors will experience moments of recognition.
“Many may spot familiar objects from store shelves or their own homes, but the exhibit challenges viewers to look beyond the surfaces,” she said. “It prompts questions about the origins, intentions, and hidden messages behind everyday products. Our goal is to spark a shift in perspective, encouraging viewers to approach consumer goods with a more critical and inquisitive eye.”
Mercer said she thinks one of the advantages of the exhibit lies in its “ability to evoke diverse responses.”
“In other words, each visitor’s discoveries will be uniquely shaped by their personal experiences and background, fostering rich, individualized insights and discussions,” she said.
In addition to the DC3 Library hosting the “Sorting Out Race” exhibit, the Library also has related events in the works—two in October and one in November.
“The first October presentation was on Oct. 9,” she said. It delved into historical context, which provided a foundation for understanding the exhibit’s content.”
That program was titled “The Objects Stories Tell” and was presented by Dr. Tai Edwards, an Associate Professor of History at Johnson County Community College.
“The second October program will examine the artistic aspects of the items, which will highlight the visual and creative elements of the exhibit,” Mercer said. “That one will be called “Marketing Imagery: Subtle and Blatant Messaging in Your Shopping Cart” and will be presented by Jennifer Nolan, DC3 Professor of Art.”
And finally, the November presentation rounds out the series by exploring the cultural implications connecting the exhibit’s themes to broader societal trends and values, she said.
On Nov. 21, at 6:30 p.m., Dr. Marco Macias, a Fort Hays State University Associate Professor of History, will present “Unpacking Stereotypes: A Journey Through Mexican-American Representation in Thrift Finds and Media.”
“Together, these three programs create a multifaceted dialogue that enriches the exhibit experience and encourages deeper engagement and understanding from various perspectives,” she said.
Being asked to host the Kauffman exhibit, which has been traveling around the country since 2015, is an important honor for DC3, Mercer said.
“Our selection by Humanities Kansas as one of only four venues in the state for this traveling exhibition highlights our commitment to bringing diverse cultural experiences to our community,” she said. “As the sole host in southwest Kansas, we are proud to offer this unique opportunity to our region.”
The fact that the exhibit’s next stop will be in Louisiana also highlights its national significance, she said.
“We’re thrilled to be part of its journey,” she said. “This event not only enriches our campus but also strengthens our position as an institution that fosters intellectual curiosity and community engagement.”
The “Sorting Out Race” exhibit may be viewed from now until Dec. 1 at the DC3 Library during regular hours: Monday through Friday from 7 a.m.-10 p.m.; Saturdays from 1-6 p.m.; and Sundays from 1-9 p.m.
By Lance ZieschDC3 Director of Marketing and Public Relations