Night at the Newseum
WASHINGTON—If you’ve never been to the Newseum in Washington, D.C., you’re going to want to add it to your bucket list. That’s right, we said Newseum. And don’t worry, it’s not just a building full of newspapers. This six-story museum located in the heart of our nation’s capital is an ode to our First Amendment rights, full of creative exhibits that are both entertaining and informative.
The Newseum gives visitors an insight into integral moments in world history, focusing on the importance of free press during events ranging from the 9/11 attacks to the fall of the Berlin Wall to the civil rights movement.
One of our favorite exhibits was the Berlin Wall. The museum has a large piece of the actual wall that separated East and West Berlin. On the western side, there is art and graffiti left from when the wall was standing. The opposite side is completely plain, representing the oppression of people on the eastern side.
Another noteworthy exhibit is the Pulitzer Prize Photographs Gallery. This gallery features every Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph since 1942. Around this exhibit, you will see some of the most iconic photos in history, including Joe Rosenthal’s “Raising the Flag On Iwo Jima” and the 1949 winner, “Babe Ruth Bows Out.”
Aside from all of the amazing exhibits, another reason why this museum is so special is because of the people. Whether you’re a journalism fanatic, history buff or just a tourist, everyone leaves the Newseum with a new or strengthened appreciation for our First Amendment rights.
One visitor, Mr. Jason Gonzales from Chicago, brought his family to the Newseum for the first time and was surprised at how much they loved it. “So far [the Newseum] is our favorite [museum] in the city,” Gonzales said. “Everything is really well-done and interesting. It’s great for adults and kids because there’s so much to learn and it’s really interactive.”
Passionate employees also contribute to the Newseum’s success. Former journalist and visitor services representative Ms. Rikki George has been working at the Newseum for only a year, but is thrilled with the work that it has done in showing the importance of a free press. “We’re champions of the First Amendment and seeing it in practice is an amazing experience,” George said. “It’s nice to see young people engaged in this subject.”
The Newseum is enjoyable for people of all ages. It has a multitude of activities, videos and exhibits for everyone to enjoy. “Every day, new people walk in and out of these doors,” said Mr. Hubert Ward, assistant manager for visitor services. “I am always talking with new people and the people that I meet here are really inspiring.”