Legacy in the Making: A Day of Advancing the Unfinished Work
May 17, 2026
In honor of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, this symposium will explore the enduring relevance of the principles articulated in the Declaration of Independence and their continued influence on the American identity, values, and civic responsibilities. Drawing inspiration from President Abraham Lincoln’s personal conviction in these ideals, this program will engage thought leaders, historians, scholars, and public figures to discuss the ways in which Lincoln’s vision, and the founding principles of the nation, shape the current landscape of American democracy.
Together, we will illuminate the critical opportunities and responsibilities we have to continue the work that Lincoln and the founding generation began, and find practical avenues to actively contribute to building a more perfect union
Let us strive on to finish the work we are in, ensuring that the founding ideals live on in our actions today and into the future.
What to Expect:
- The Symposium will take place in the Frances and Craig Lindner Center for Culture and Leadership, located at 512 10th St NW.
- Session formats may include interactive workshops, panel discussions and presentations.
- General Admission Registration includes all five symposium activities.
- Attendees may opt-in for a guided tour of the Ford’s Theatre Museum at 12 p.m., before the symposium sessions begin.
- Ford’s is pleased to host participants for a cocktail reception in the Malek and Carlucci Legacy Hall following the final session. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and light snacks will be provided.
Program
12 – 1 p.m. – Pre-Symposium Guided Tour of Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site
1 – 5 p.m. – Symposium
(Sessions will be 60-75 minutes long, with short breaks in between. Session order is subject to change.)
Women in the Wings: Reading American Life Narratives
Life narratives allow a multilayered insight into the lives and times experienced by historical figures. Through guided exercises, participants will consider the intersection of personal voice with historical moments through reading selections from three First Ladies who demonstrated a commitment to founding principles of the nation.
With Malice toward None: Confronting Political Violence in a Digital Age
Political violence happened at Ford’s Theatre and its legacies continue to impact our world today. Explore how such acts manifest in our digital spaces, and, importantly, ways to combat such violence through individual action and government policy.
Dreams of the Future: Imagining American Democracy with Jefferson, Adams, and Lincoln
When the founders gathered to imagine a new nation, how did they navigate differing dreams and ideals? How did Abraham Lincoln interpret their vision and infuse it with his own civic imagination? In this session we will ask ourselves, what do we, the people today, imagine for our future?
5 – 6 p.m. – Post-Symposium Cocktail Reception