[Collection of 25 Cartographic Handbills and Protest Flyers]

Using maps as a tool for political and social activism.

This fascinating assortment of handbills and flyers highlights how important cartography was to local community organization efforts during the 20th century. Maps are incorporated in several different ways, from direction and wayfinding to design elements and visual appeal. Twenty-five different examples of protest literature are included, mostly originating from the Bay Area but also representing Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, and more. A variety of causes are represented; most left-wing, such as pro-labor, anti-nuclear, anti-imperialism, pro-peace, and socialist political activism. A notable and interesting element of the collection is the ‘remote’ nature of several of the advertised community actions. For example, a protest in California for miners’ rights in Virginia.