Freedom Then, Freedom Now

Freedom Then, Freedom Now  is a unique and fascinating exhibition that journeys into our state’s relationship with the notion of freedom in the past and present. For those who haven't seen it yet, make tracks for the State Library of Queensland soon as it closes on November 19th. 

SLQ has a vast historical collection from which to draw materials, and patrons will be privy to fascinating insights into Queensland’s past. You can explore the freedoms enjoyed and restricted in the state over the years, with the exhibition examining what happens when individual rights intersect with collective good.

Freedom Then, Freedom Now is curated by Emeritus Professor Peter Spearritt, who has put together the exhibition with materials from the 1950s to now, across themes such as censorship, marriage, citizenship, dress and travel.

Remember the advances and setbacks for personal and collective liberties, such as Eddie Mabo’s Native Title victory in 1992, or the controversial anti-consorting laws and pink jumpsuits introduced in 2013? You can learn more about the facts and social context of these landmark events, through published works, photographs, newspaper materials, and donated items such as clothing, signage, collectable political items, and even a cigarette case.

We can all definitely learn from history so that we hopefully don’t repeat mistakes of the past, so this is a very valuable and worthwhile exhibition to check out.

By Vicki Englund

State Library of Queensland is a valued partner of Must Do Brisbane.com