Stone Ghosts and The Quiet Power of Preservation

The monuments that we honor, the stories that we tell, and the spaces we return to, are ways that we look to the past to better understand ourselves, because the memories that are held in their walls and in their soil and in their spirits are reflections of not just who we were, but who we are. These monuments and places have the power to oppress or uplift, valorize or villainize, bind or set free. They tell a story. But whose story? Let’s talk about the role of edifice, architecture and ephemera in freedom and politics.

Trymaine will be joined by Brent Leggs, Executive Director, African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund at the National Historic Trust.

*RSVP by 10:00am ET by Thursday, 9/30. You must register through this form and a limited number of seats will be allocated for in-person participation. We will notify you the evening before the study group via your Harvard email whether you will be joining in-person or via Zoom.

*AUDIENCE: These conversations are open to members of the Harvard community. Please RSVP with a valid Harvard email address.

*OFF-THE-RECORD: In keeping with our long tradition at the IOP to ensure honest and candid discussions of politics, all IOP study groups are off-the-record.

*The Institute of Politics is strictly observing all HKS COVID health and safety protocols. HKS buildings are closed to the public and attendance will be limited to the room capacity. You will be asked to show a Harvard ID prior to entry and doors to the space will open 10 minutes before the start time. Unvaccinated persons should make every effort to practice social distancing. Everyone must wear a mask indoors. No eating or drinking is permitted at indoor events.