The Capitol Interpretive Exhibits and Wayfinding Subcommittee of the Wyoming Legislature convened on October 17, 2024, to discuss the development of interactive exhibits aimed at enhancing public understanding of government functions. The meeting focused on the design and content of a new exhibit that will highlight the U.S. Constitution and the roles of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of government.
The proposed exhibit will serve as a central station where visitors can engage with the Constitution in a meaningful way. Plans include tailored content that resonates with the audience, emphasizing the foundational principles of government. A unique feature of the exhibit will be a "passport" system, allowing visitors to collect stamps or markers at various stations, thereby enriching their experience and encouraging exploration.
Key discussions centered on the legislative branch, which will be presented through a mix of graphic panels and interactive elements. The exhibit aims to simplify complex concepts, such as the legislative process, citizen involvement, and the importance of committees. The subcommittee emphasized the need for engaging, tactile experiences that promote learning through interaction.
The executive branch will also be covered, detailing its role in enforcing laws and the various agencies that support this function. The discussion highlighted the importance of informing citizens about how they can engage with government beyond just voting.
The judicial branch will be addressed, albeit briefly, as the subcommittee aims to direct visitors to the Judicial Learning Center for a deeper understanding of the court system. The exhibit will also explore the principle of checks and balances, illustrating how power is distributed among different branches of government.
A significant addition to the exhibit will be a focus on public policy, aiming to educate visitors on its importance and how they can participate as active citizens. The subcommittee expressed a commitment to showcasing the various levels of government—state, local, tribal, and national—and their impacts on citizens' lives.
The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of creating an engaging and educational experience that fosters civic involvement and understanding of government processes. The next steps will involve refining the exhibit's content and design to ensure it meets the educational goals set forth by the subcommittee.