‘The Bias Inside Us’ at Downtown Huntsville Library—what to know

The Downtown Huntsville Public Library is about to land the traveling Smithsonian exhibit, “The Bias Inside Us,” which uses images and testimonials to address the impact of this bias and what people can do about it.

This fascinating exhibit opens in Huntsville April 22. Here’s what to know:

About ‘The Bias Inside Us’

Hosted by the City of Huntsville, the free exhibit will discuss the social science and psychology of implicit bias, the impact of this bias and what people can do about it. Through compelling images, hands-on interactive sources and powerful testimonials and videos, “The Bias Inside Us” unpacks the complicated concept of bias.

The community engagement project is organized by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service and features six sections:

• Introduction
• The Science of Bias
• Bias in Real Life
• Serious Consequences – Bias is All Around Us
• #RetrainYourBrain
• Personal Reflection

Visitors will participate in a self-guided tour exploring the foundational blocks of bias, the psychology of how bias forms and how it influences behaviors both consciously and unconsciously.

“We are beyond thrilled to be the first city in Alabama to host this exhibit, especially in a location as accommodating and inclusive as the downtown library branch. With approximately 40,000 visitors to this location each month, we’re certain the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library is the perfect landing spot for this important exhibit in Huntsville.”

Kenny Anderson, Director of the Huntsville Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

How and when to see this exhibit

Hours for the exhibit will be Monday through Thursday, 9AM to 8PM; Friday and Saturday, 9AM to 5PM; and Sunday, 1PM to 5PM. Last admittance will be 30 minutes before closing.

The Library will also host a keynote speaker and community read discussion of Blindspot: Hidden Biases of Good People by Mahzarin R. Banaji and Anthony G. Greenwald.

“The Library is honored to have the opportunity to host this impactful Smithsonian exhibit. As a vibrant community hub, we strive to provide access to culturally significant experiences to the public. We believe the Downtown Huntsville Public Library is an ideal setting for ‘The Bias Inside Us’ exhibition.”

HMCPL Executive Director Cindy Hewitt

An official grand opening for “The Bias Inside Us” will be held Monday, April 24, 10AM at the library. Get a sneak peek of the exhibition here.

Follow Hville Blast on Facebook and Instagram, and be sure to subscribe to our newsletter so you don’t miss announcements on what’s happening in and around Huntsville.