Learn about Citizen Engagement in America’s History on June 20
Press Release · Thursday, June 14, 2018

Washington, DC

On Wednesday, June 20, at 7 pm, the National Archives will host a special program on the impact and importance of citizen advocacy. A panel of experts -- including citizen activists and current and former Members of Congress -- will discuss movements from civil rights marches to social media campaigns.

Former Member of Congress Jane Harman (D-CA) will moderate a panel to include:  Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC); Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School teacher Sarah Lerner, with student Rain Valladares; former Member of Congress Tom Petri (R-WI); and, Founder of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Candace Lightner.

The program will provide insight into civic engagement, civic education, and how to petition the government. Current and former Members of Congress will also share personal experiences about how citizens impacted their time as policymakers. The event is presented in partnership with the U.S. Association of Former Members of Congress.

The event will be held in the William G. McGowan Theater of the National Archives Museum in Washington, D.C. and live streamed on YouTube. Attendees should use the Special Events entrance on Constitution Avenue at 7th Street, NW.  This public program is free, but reservations are recommended and can be made online here.

Related exhibit
The Records of Rights permanent exhibit uses original documents, photographs, videos, and interactive exhibits to explore how Americans have worked to realize the ideals of freedom enshrined in our nation’s founding documents, and how they have debated issues such as citizenship, free speech, voting rights, and equal opportunity. Exploring many stories–and showcasing the drive for civil rights for African Americans, women, and immigrants–the exhibition chronicles the past and current generations whose efforts to secure equality under the law have shaped the country we live in today.