Hoosiers in the 21st Century

Video Transcription
In 2016, the state of Indiana celebrated its 200^th birthday. Hoosiers at the beginning of the twenty-first century share many similarities with their pioneer ancestors, but the differences are perhaps even more striking.

While agriculture is still an important industry, Indiana’s economy is multi-faceted. Indiana entrepreneurs, businesses and universities are leaders in technology and research. Multi-national corporations have production facilities in cities around the state.

Immigrants from around the world make Indiana their new home. As a people, we are learning to become more inclusive, welcoming diverse cultural and political viewpoints, accepting more nuanced definitions of gender and gender roles, and educating ourselves about Indiana and Hoosiers’ place in a world that has no geographic boundaries.

Some think Indiana is changing too slowly in a rapidly changing world, but others resist change. Some Hoosiers embrace change, some cling to tradition. Blending old and new is not always easy. How can you help welcome new people and ideas into your world?

Primary Sources

New Targets of Discrimination
Ryan White and HIV
Source: Kokomo Tribune, August 31, 1985
Compelling Question: What can society do to limit discrimination based not only on race but also physical or intellectual disabilities, gender preference, and health?

Desert Storm Veterans
Hoosiers Go to War Again
Source: Indianapolis Star
Compelling Question: How should a society honor and protect those who serve in times of war or peace?

Preserving Memories
The Modern Powwow
Source: First Nations Educational & Cultural Center
Compelling Question: How do we preserve the past while making way for the future?