National Archives to Celebrate 10th Anniversary of David M. Rubenstein Gallery
Press Release · Wednesday, January 31, 2024

Washington, DC

The National Archives and the National Archives Foundation are joining with philanthropist David M. Rubenstein to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the opening of the David M. Rubenstein Gallery and its permanent Records of Rights exhibit at the National Archives Museum in Washington, DC, on February 12 at 7 p.m. 

As part of the celebration, Archivist of the United States Dr. Colleen Shogan will lead a discussion with Julieanna Richardson, founder and executive director of the HistoryMakers digital archive, Elisabeth Griffith, author and historian, and Mark Updegrove, president and CEO of the LBJ Foundation. Panelists will share their perspectives on the evolution of rights in America and the significance and impact of the special exhibition at the National Archives.

“The David M. Rubenstein Gallery and the Records of Rights exhibit are a fabulous part of any visit to the National Archives Building, illuminating the struggles and triumphs experienced in the quest for rights and freedom,” Shogan said. “We are grateful to Mr. Rubenstein for the amazing support he has provided to the National Archives, and it’s a great pleasure and privilege for me to be part of this commemorative event. ”

The gallery opened in December 2013 and was made possible by a $13.5 million gift from Rubenstein to the National Archives Foundation, the nonprofit partner of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). The gift allowed the museum to significantly expand its offerings with the Records of Rights exhibit, which provides context for the Charters of Freedom—the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights—on view in the National Archives Rotunda. 

Records of Rights begins with an original copy of the 1297 Magna Carta, one of only four in existence, which is owned by Rubenstein and loaned to the National Archives Museum. The exhibit traces the evolution of rights in the United States from our country’s founding through the present day. It uses original documents, photographs, facsimiles, videos, and interactive exhibits to explore individual rights, pivotal federal legislation, and the compelling stories of citizens' struggles and triumphs in securing their rights.

Following the program, attendees are invited to a reception with light refreshments. For registration information visit: https://www.archivesfoundation.org/event/celebrating-10-years-of-the-david-m-rubenstein-records-of-rights-gallery/.

This event is made possible in part by the National Archives Foundation.

About the National Archives

The National Archives and Records Administration is the nation's record keeper. It safeguards and manages the official records of the U.S. government, ensuring the documentation of our nation's history. For more information, visit www.archives.gov.

About the National Archives Foundation

The National Archives Foundation is an independent nonprofit that increases public awareness of the National Archives, inspires a deeper appreciation of our country's heritage, and encourages citizen engagement in our democracy. Learn more at www.archivesfoundation.org.