Public Programs in 2026
In 2026, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County will host a series of public programs that invite guests to ask questions about how human inhabitants and natural resources in the Los Angeles region resonate with the history of the United States and the legacy of the Declaration of Independence. Visitors can also explore exhibits and displays related to these themes, including L.A. History: A Mexican Perspective, Becoming Los Angeles, and a new exhibit reflecting on the nation’s 250-year history, The Declaration In Progress. The new display will feature an 1829 copy of a handwritten draft of the Declaration of Independence, and will highlight equality movements related to education and women’s suffrage.
LA2026 Humanities Discussions at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles
Painting L.A. History
Thursday, March 12, 2026
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90007
6:30 pm – 8:45 pm (Refreshments at 5:30 pm)
A conversation and workshop with Barbara Carrasco (artist/muralist) focused on her mural “LA History: A Mexican Perspective,” now on permanent display in NHM Commons. Participants will create their own art and engage in discussions about the mural and its connections to themes of belonging in Los Angeles as the United States marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Painting Los Angeles History
Friday, September 25, 2026
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90007
5:30 pm – 9:00 pm
A conversation and workshop with Gaila Sims (Assistant Curator of History, Natural History Museum) and Barbara Carrasco (artist/muralist) focused on her mural “LA History: A Mexican Perspective,” now on permanent display in NHM Commons, and the special exhibition, The Declaration in Progress. Attendees will create their own art, and participate in discussions about the mural and its connections to themes of belonging in Los Angeles as the United States marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Beyond the Exhibition: A Virtual Conversation on The Declaration in Progress
Thursday, October 1, 2026
Online Event
Time: 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Join us for a virtual conversation about the Natural History Museum’s new exhibition, The Declaration in Progress, moderated by Assistant History Curator Gaila Sims. Members of the exhibition team — Lauren Cooper (Exhibition Developer), Danelle Rubio (Exhibition Designer), and Beth Werling (Senior Collection Manager) — will take us behind-the-scenes of the curatorial process. Attendees will hear stories behind the featured objects and see how individual actions have continually shaped our nation’s history.
Learn more about the items a the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles
