North Carolina Historic Sites & Buncombe County Special Collections present a day filled with programs that delve into the fundamental ideals of democracy and explore the voices that have shaped our nation.

How can change be a powerful force for progress?
How can we work together to create a more just society?
When are we US?

***Program Schedule***

9:30 am - "A New Birth of Freedom in the Mountain South"
Historian Dr. Steven Nash, author of Reconstruction’s Ragged Edge, will present a lecture exploring the aftermath of slavery in Western North Carolina with Q&A to follow.

10:30 am - "A Woman of Her Own Making"
Literature scholar Rebecca Godwin will discuss Julia Wolfe, not simply the mother of Thomas Wolfe, but a successful business woman and example of independent women in the early 20th century with Q&A to follow.

1:00 pm - Screening - "Urban Renewal Impact"
Part II of the “Black in Asheville” film series. Documentary film screening followed by a discussion and Q&A with filmmaker Todd Gragg and community historian Priscilla Robinson.

3:30 pm - "Open Envelope"
Live readings of historical documents that explore the symposium theme, “When are We, US?” with opportunity for Q&A with local public historians.

Light refreshments will be served.