RACE: Are We So Different?

The idea that we can group people into “races” is only a few hundred years old. It was, and is, tied to power and hierarchy. Today, scientists have disproved the idea of race and its notions of biological superiority. But the idea of race continues to shape our lives. How did we get here? And how can we do better?

In RACE: Are We So Different?, you can examine our shared history and current reality. Understanding the past, acknowledging harm, and joining the conversation are the first steps toward a fairer future.

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Presented by
A crowd of people.

We’re one human family

Each of us represents a unique combination of genes, environment, and experiences. But we all share a common ancestry. Trace the human migration out of Africa and explore the evidence that allows scientists to recreate this journey.

Prison system disparities

While Americans are only about 4% of the world’s population, the US is home to about ~1/4 of the world’s prisoners—who are often people of color. Racism helped create this disparity.

A handcuffed man.
The Minneapolis skyline from Prospect Park.

Minnesota nice?

Deeply entrenched patterns of segregation and discrimination disadvantage people of color when it comes to health, wealth, education, or contact with the criminal justice system. Learn more from individuals in your own neighborhoods and communities.

A Memorial

No matter what filter you apply to the data, Black Americans are more likely to experience police violence than other groups. (The content may be triggering or traumatic for some viewers.)

Reads 'say their names. Diga sus nombres.'

Reflections on the exhibit

Join featured guests as they explore RACE: Are We So Different? See the exhibition through a variety of personal lenses.

Digital Resources

Growth can happen anywhere. Discover how the idea of race impacts us all through virtual offerings, professional development, and straightforward videos that bring a scientific perspective to race and racism.

Sections of faces of people of different races collaged to make one face.