At 2pm on Sunday September 22, ten of our region’s most distinguished historians will share the important – and very relevant – history about how the idea of democracy evolved through our region from the 1700s until today.



The afternoon will be broken into four eras, with the dividing lines being 1) the appearance of the French among the indigenous peoples, 2) the declaration of American independence, 3) the end of the Civil War, and 4) the lead up to World War II.



Speaking from the perspective of different populations, each talk will explore: Who belonged? and Who decided who belonged? The answers will vary, based on the era and the identity of the person. For example: Were they a farmer, a soldier, female, indigenous or of black heritage?



Speakers include Jane Adams, Kay Carr, Darrel Dexter, Tony Girard, John Jackson, Aaron Lisec, Sharon Person, Kay Rippelmeyer, Judy Simpson, and Judy Travelstead.



The event is made possible through funding from the Illinois Humanities Foreground Rural Initiative in partnership with Artspace 304. It was developed as a collaboration of members of the Illinois Humanities Hub of Jackson and Union Counties. It will take place from 2pm – 5pm at the Murphysboro Event Center, 1329 Walnut Street in Murphysboro. The event is free but requires online pre-registration. Link: https://b2ndxndf.paperform.co/  



Illinois Humanities activates the humanities through free public programs, grants, and educational opportunities that foster reflection, spark conversation, build community, and strengthen civic engagement. Illinois Humanities is a nonprofit organization and the state’s affiliate for the National Endowment for the Humanities.



Artspace 304 supports Southern Illinois’ diverse and vibrant cultural arts community by growing leadership, education, funding, connections, and regional economic development. For more information about Artspace 304’s programs, exhibitions, opportunities, and events, visit our website at artspace304.org.