Bringing the Past Present: Public History in an Era of Turmoil
Solicited by the OAH Committee on Public History
Saturday, April 4, 2020, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Type: Lightning Round
Tags: Public History and Memory
Abstract
In an era of political and social turmoil, reflections on the historical past can take on greater meaning and relevance in public dialogue. As such, the work of public historians who contend with contested or traumatic histories can particularly salient, yet also fraught with potential challenges and repercussions. In this lightening round, public historians and curators will share reflections on presenting sensitive and politically volatile topics to contemporary audiences and offer insights on the challenges and opportunities of unpacking the past in a turbulent present.
Session Participants
Chair: Lilly Tuttle Ph.D.
Presenter: Julio Capó Jr., University of Massachusetts Amherst
Presenter: Sarah Dylla, Atlanta History Center
Presenter: Edna Friedberg, US Holocaust Memorial Museum
Presenter: Monica Montgomery, Prince George's African American Museum
Presenter: John Russick, Chicago History Museum
Presenter: Sarah Jane Seidman, MCNY
Presenter: Stephen Vider, Cornell University