New Exhibit Highlights South Bay as Hub of Cultural Progress

As the nation navigates a pivotal election year, San José State University King Library's Special Collections and Archives proudly presents a timely new exhibit, "Politics and Progress in the South Bay," on display from September 12 through December 19,in the fifth-floor foyer of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library.

This exhibition invites the community to explore over a dozen collections of political papers housed in the SJSU Special Collections and Archives, offering an unprecedented look at the forces of change that shaped the South Bay region and beyond.

Highlights include the papers of Norman Mineta, '02 Honorary Doctorate, the first Japanese-American cabinet member; Janet Gray Hayes, the first woman elected mayor of San José; and Ken Yeager, '76 Political Science, the first openly gay elected official in Santa Clara County. Their stories, along with those of many others, illustrate the cultural and political progress that began right here in the South Bay.

The exhibit features an array of primary sources such as correspondence, photographs, campaign memorabilia, artifacts, and more - from the archives of prominent political leaders who have played significant roles both locally and nationally, making the region a hub of political innovation and leadership.

"This is an election year, and the time seemed right to highlight the rich array of materials among our Political Papers collections," said Craig Simpson, director of the Special Collections and Archives. "I hope visitors to the exhibition will come away with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the South Bay as an epicenter for cultural progress, as reflected by our political representatives."

Visitors will also gain insights into the lasting legacies of other influential figures such as Blanca Alvarado, Dianne McKenna, '77 MUP, and Mike Honda, '68 Biological Science, '70 Teaching Credential, '74 MA Education, whose work continues to inspire future generations. Each collection sheds light on critical moments in history and demonstrates the role the South Bay has played in advancing social and political change.

To celebrate the exhibit's opening, the public is invited to a special reception on September 19, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the King Library, Room 225. The event will feature a presentation on the political figures represented in the exhibit, along with light refreshments and an exclusive preview of the collections.

Attendees are encouraged to RSVP.

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