National Constitution Center

Dates: Thursday, Nov 13th (No class Tuesday)

Location: Online - see e-mail for Zoom link!

Website: https://constitutioncenter.org/

his week we are talking to the National Constitution Center about the First Amendment and its importance to a functioning democratic society. They have graciously provided us with some pre-activities for our upcoming session with a scholar from the Center. They have designed the following information to introduce some of the concepts they will be discussing as well as spark curiosity so you can ask questions! Read on and enjoy!

First up, who is the National Constitution Center and what do they do? From their website: 

A private, nonprofit organization, the Center serves as America’s leading platform for constitutional education and debate. As the MUSEUM OF WE THE PEOPLE, the Center brings the Constitution to life for visitors of all ages through interactive programs and exhibits. As AMERICA’S TOWN HALL, the Center brings the leading conservative and liberal thought leaders together to debate the Constitution on all media platforms. As a HEADQUARTERS FOR CIVIC EDUCATION, the Center delivers the best educational programs and online resources that inspire citizens and engage all Americans in learning about the U.S. Constitution. 

So now that we know what they do, let’s look closer at our topic for this week.

Second, take a look at this image:

(link to the photo is here: Colorado Vote)

As you look at that photo, think about these questions: 

●  What do you see first? What draws your attention?

●  What people, symbols, or actions are shown, and what might they represent?

●  What historical context might help explain this image?

●  What perspective or message do you think the creator intended to convey?

Lastly, read this historical document, “A Plea for Free Speech in Boston” by Frederick Douglass in 1860.  As you read, consider the questions below: 

●  Who is the author, and what is their point of view or purpose?

●  What specific language or rhetorical devices stand out?

●  How does this document reflect the historical moment in which it was written?

●  How does this document connect to the themes of your upcoming session?

Now, check out the questions they have provided for both before and during the exchange with our Constitutional scholar. You can view and answer the questions here: 

Tune in this Thursday to speak with a Constitutional scholar about the First Amendment. See you then!