The topic of immigration currently dominates social and political discourse in the USA, yet more than 90 percent of Americans are immigrants or the descendants of immigrants. As the education team worked with students during the spring semester of 2025, students grappled with how a nation primarily composed of immigrants could harbor so much xenophobia as well. These discussions and questions inspired students to develop NMHIM’s exhibit From Routes to Roots: Immigration and Refugees in the Land of Enchantment.
This student-curated display explores the history of immigration and refugees as they navigate the challenges of displacement, identity, and belonging. Through photographs, artifacts, and creative works, From Routes to Roots highlights the resilience of those who leave their homes to seek safety, opportunity, and community. From Routes to Roots covers the topics of modern immigration in New Mexico and Albuquerque, as well as immigration and deportation during the Holocaust. Students were able to collaborate with the museum’s collections department to display information and artifacts from NMHIM founder Werner Gellert’s time in the Shanghai refugee camp. By connecting these historical stories to local realities, From Routes to Roots aims to help viewers understand immigration not just as a political issue, but as a deeply personal and human one.
This is our most expansive and in-depth exhibit developed by students who take part in the NMHIM semester exhibit design program. The education department and the museum are immensely proud of the students’ work. Whether you are the descendant of immigrants, a newcomer yourself, or have been here since time immemorial Routes to Roots offers a space to consider how journeys—both past and present—continue to shape who we are and who we might become.
