The National Archives and its nonprofit partner, the National Archives Foundation, today announced a new series, “National Conversations on Rights and Justice,” to be held at several locations across the country.
The series will run in conjunction with the new exhibition, Amending America, opening on March 11, 2016, in the Lawrence F. O’Brien Gallery at the National Archives Museum in Washington, DC. The exhibition showcases both successful and unsuccessful attempts to amend the Constitution as part of the National Archives’ commemoration of the 225th anniversary of the ratification of the Bill of Rights. Other commemorative activities across the nation include a traveling exhibit, education outreach, and public programs at National Archives facilities.
Held from spring 2016 to early 2017, the National Conversation series will explore topics related to the continuing and often complicated issues of rights in our modern era, including: immigration rights/reform, civil rights and individual freedom, women’s rights and gender equality, and educational access and equity. The series will also include a multi-day event in Washington, DC.
The series will kick-off with a two-day program in Atlanta featuring former President Jimmy Carter, May 20-21, 2016. Each of the National Conversations will focus on a different topic, and engage area thought leaders with diverse perspectives and experiences. The multi-day programs will include opportunities for children and students, as well as scholars.
“These National Conversations allow citizens to participate in meaningful discussions about the ongoing struggle to secure fundamental rights and justice for all Americans,” said David S. Ferriero, Archivist of the United States. “As the permanent home of the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Declaration of Independence, the National Archives is uniquely positioned to host these Conversations and exhibits.”
The Archivist plays a critical role in the amendment process, by certifying the ratification of the amendments to affirm that the requirements laid out in Article V have been met.
In addition to the program in Atlanta, the Archives will hold National Conversations in Los Angeles, Chicago, New York and Dallas. These programs will build on the National Archives’ holdings and will be held in partner institutions.
The “National Conversations on Rights and Justice” is presented in part by the AT&T Foundation, Ford Foundation, Seedlings Foundation, and the National Archives Foundation.
About the National Archives
The National Archives and Records Administration is an independent federal agency that serves American democracy by safeguarding and preserving the records of our Government, so people can discover, use, and learn from this documentary heritage. The National Archives ensures continuing access to the essential documentation of the rights of American citizens and the actions of their government. From the Declaration of Independence to accounts of ordinary Americans, the holdings of the National Archives directly touch the lives of millions of people. The agency supports democracy, promotes civic education, and facilitates historical understanding of our national experience. The National Archives carries out its mission through a nationwide network of archives, records centers, and Presidential Libraries, and on the Internet at www.archives.gov.
About the National Archives Foundation
The National Archives Foundation is an independent nonprofit that increases public awareness of the National Archives, inspires a deeper appreciation of our country’s heritage, and encourages citizen engagement in our democracy. The Foundation generates financial and creative support for National Archives exhibitions, public programs, and educational initiatives, introducing America’s records to people around the U.S. and the world. Learn more at archivesfoundation.org.
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