Explore the history of immigration in Virginia

People from around the world have shaped Virginia's story for more than two centuries — building businesses, strengthening communities and redefining what it means to be American.

What you need to know: A new exhibition at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, "We the People: The World in Our Commonwealth," is a signature component of the museum's multi-year slate commemorating America's 250th anniversary.

• It opens March 21 and runs through Sept. 7 at the museum's Arthur Ashe Boulevard campus.

Here's the deal: The exhibition unites more than 100 voices of people who immigrated to Virginia from over 68 countries to make the Commonwealth their home.

Why it's important: Immigration continues to shape daily life across the Commonwealth — today, more than 1.16 million Virginians were born outside the United States.

• Through immersive environments, personal artifacts, historical objects and multimedia storytelling, the new exhibition traces stories of freedom, opportunity and refuge over the past 250 years of American history.

"We the People" visitors will encounter stories from across the world — and across generations — including from:

• Sughra Hussainy, an Afghan artist who sought asylum in the U.S. after being targeted by the Taliban for portraying empowered women.
• Ernest Max Gunzburg, who fled Nazi Germany and later dedicated his life to helping other refugees.
• Abe Doumar, a Norfolk-based Syrian immigrant who invented the waffle cone at the 1904 World's Fair.
• Stella Dikos, founder of Richmond's beloved Stella's restaurant, whose family recipes and kitchen tools will be on display.

Worth a mention: The exhibition is the result of more than five years of extensive collaboration that included interviews, descendant engagements and guidance from multiple advisory councils composed of community members and subject matter experts.

Here's what else: In support of "We the People," VMHC will also host a series of related programming, including:

• Commonwealth Crossroads, an event on March 28, highlights rich artistic traditions brought to Virginia by recent immigrants and refugees.
• A week of multicultural spring break activities for the whole family beginning March 30.
• A Latinx fashion show on April 12.

What VMHC is saying:

• "We invite our visitors and the nation to reflect deeply on our past and invest with great purpose in our future by using Virginia history as a lens into our American journey," VMHC president and CEO Jamie Bosket said.
• "At a time when immigration is ever-present in the news, it is my hope that everyone who visits the exhibition will see a little of their own history in the experiences of Virginia immigrants," the exhibit's curator Julie Kemper said.

The takeaway: America's 250th anniversary is a moment for reflection. "We the People" explores how immigrants have shaped — and been shaped by — Virginia and the ongoing pursuit of a more perfect union.

Visit the exhibition or attend an event.