The Smithsonian Institution is bringing its powerful program, Reckoning with Our Racial Past: Conversations for Our Shared Future, to Nashville on Monday, December 2, 2024, at the Frist Art Museum. This free, thought-provoking event is designed to engage the public in meaningful conversations about the history and lasting impact of racism on communities across the country, with a particular focus on housing, health care, and wealth inequality.
The program, which runs from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM, features an impressive lineup of local and national thought leaders, moderated by the award-winning journalist Soledad O’Brien, founder of SO’B Productions. Panelists include:
- Terry Vo, Metro Council Member for Nashville’s District 17
- Clifford Murphy, Director of the Smithsonian’s Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage
- Eric Holt, Assistant Professor of Music Business at Belmont University
- José González, Co-founder of Conexión Américas
- Marshall E. Crawford Jr., President and CEO of The Housing Fund
- Katrina R. Beard, CEO of the Matthew Walker Comprehensive Health Center
The evening will conclude with a wrap-up led by renowned journalist Vicki Yates, offering insights and reflections on the discussion.
Building a Shared Future Through Conversation
This Nashville event is part of the Smithsonian’s Our Shared Future: Reckoning with Our Racial Past initiative, launched in 2021. The initiative explores how people from all backgrounds understand and experience racism while promoting paths toward a more equitable future. By using the Smithsonian’s vast resources and expertise, the program addresses critical issues through six core pillars: Race and Wellness, Race and Wealth, Race and Place, Race, Policy and Ethics, Race Beyond the U.S., and Race, Arts and Aesthetics.
With previous stops in cities like Charlotte, Cleveland, New York City, and St. Louis, the program has sparked vital conversations nationwide. The Nashville event aims to resonate deeply with the local community by focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities facing the city’s residents.
Free Registration and How to Attend
This event is free and open to the public, but advance registration is required. To secure your spot, visit smithsonian.swoogo.com/NashvilleConversations.
Don’t miss this chance to engage in a dialogue that could shape the future of our communities. Join the conversation and be part of the movement to understand our past and build a better tomorrow.
For more information, contact Linda St. Thomas at stthomasl@si.edu or visit the Smithsonian’s media website at newsdesk.si.edu.
