Voices of Change Series Highlights Art and Social Transformation

The program opened on February 22 with a joint concert by the Muskingum Valley Symphonic Winds and the Muskingum University Wind Ensemble in Brown Chapel. The ensembles performed works honoring pivotal movements and figures-including the Women's Suffrage Movement, the Tuskegee Airmen, Rosa Parks, and LGBTQ+ activist Marsha P. Johnson-setting a reflective tone for the week.

A student art exhibition followed in Palmer Gallery, featuring works by Raquel Brenley, Owen Buxton, and Sam Palmieri inspired by themes of resilience, representation, and historical change.

On February 23, the gallery hosted Safe Spaces, Strong Voices, an event supporting underrepresented communities with a focus on LGBTQ+ identity and advocacy. Attendees engaged in conversation, trivia, and activities centered on belonging and empowerment.

The series concluded on February 25 with a performance by Two by Two, a folk-gospel duo whose storytelling and musical interpretations brought warmth and connection to the closing evening.

Additional programming included a Fireside Chat on the arts' role in maintaining humanity in the digital age.

Voices of Change was presented by the Departments of Art & Design, History, and Music; the Muskingum Special Events Committee; and supported by the Miriam G. Schwartz Endowment. All events were free and open to the public.