Annual Spring Benefit: March 26, 2020
At our annual spring benefit Opening Minds. Inspiring Change., this year reimagined as an online program, we explored the meaning of American radicalism and how the history of activism can inspire Courageous Citizenship. Dr. Timothy Patrick McCarthy, Carr Center for Human Rights Policy, Harvard Kennedy School, spoke to us on “Protest Nation: What the American Radical Tradition Can Teach Us About Courageous Citizenship.“
“Protest Nation: What the American Radical Tradition Can Teach Us About Courageous Citizenship.”
Professor McCarthy explained how the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights provide the foundation for activism in American political tradition. He noted American movements and heroes of African American, women’s, and LGBTQ+ rights as examples that were once considered radical and that offer inspiration for courageous citizenship. He urged the study of history and primary sources, particularly for today’s youth, in order to promote movements for change even during periods of uncertainty. Tim’s remarks about the possibilities for activism in the face of the current pandemic were both encouraging and reassuring. The program recording is available here.
Our annual benefit is a special occasion that offers us the opportunity to connect and converse on the global challenges we face today. It also provides Primary Source with philanthropic support that we depend on to underwrite our important work. We are grateful for our sponsors who remain committed to our mission and this event in its digital format.
If you are able to provide support during this unprecedented time, please click here.