For Immediate Release: December 17, 2002
Further information: Ann Scanlon (617) 514-1662
In preparation for Black History Month, Thursday, January 30, 2003 (snow date: Friday, January 31), the Kennedy Library will sponsor a day-long workshop for middle and high school teachers on ways to engage students on the issue of race in American history. The session will focus on the history of slavery and the founding of the nation; abolition and the emancipation of slaves; and the civil rights movement. Conference highlights will include:
Special guest presenter, Dr. Spencer Crew* , CEO and executive director of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and former director of the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, will speak on how best to teach students about the Underground Railroad.
John Stanwich, recently chronicled in the New York Times for his work depicting President John Adams, will address the debates over slavery at the founding of our nation.
Dr. Stephen Kenney, curator of the Commonwealth Museum at the Massachusetts State Archives, will use primary source documents to discuss the Black Regiments from Massachusetts led by Robert Gould Shaw that fought in the Civil War (as depicted in the film Glory).
A session comparing the views of Abraham Lincoln and Massachusetts abolitionist Theodore Parker; who agreed on the issue of slavery but disagreed over the importance of maintaining the union.
An introduction to the Kennedy Library’s new web-based curriculum, Integrating Ole Miss: A Civil Rights Milestone, a collection of primary source documents that chronicle the story of James Meredith’s registration at the University of Mississippi.
The opportunity to meet other teachers and share personal experiences on how best to engage students on the issue of race in U.S. history.
Registration is required, and space is limited. The Registration fee is $20.00, which will cover the cost of lunch and materials. To register, please complete this registration form and fax to 617.514.1641. If you have questions please call Cecile Nugent at 617.514.1646 or e-mail cecile.nugent@nara.gov.