FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Merissa Blum, 215-409-6645
[email protected]
NATIONAL CONSTITUTION CENTER QUARTERLY EVENTS CALENDAR, OCTOBER – DECEMBER 2019
Philadelphia, PA (September 30, 2019) – This fall, the National Constitution Center will host a variety of events for audiences of all ages. Fall programming highlights include the 31st annual Liberty Medal Ceremony recognizing the Honorable Anthony M. Kennedy, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, the return of FOURTEEN: A Theatrical Performance, special Veterans Day programming, a school supplies drive for Philadelphia schools, and a full lineup of America’s Town Hall discussions.
On October 14, FOURTEEN: A Theatrical Performance will return to the National Constitution Center Mondays through Fridays until December 6. The moving theatrical performance sheds light on the Reconstruction era and the ratification of the 14th Amendment, and is presented in conjunction with the Center’s newest exhibit, Civil War and Reconstruction: The Battle for Freedom and Equality.
On October 27, the National Constitution Center will award its 31st annual Liberty Medal to Justice Anthony M. Kennedy for his efforts to preserve, protect, and defend liberty by inspiring Americans of all ages to learn about the Constitution through civic education and civil dialogue. Justice Kennedy will be awarded the Liberty Medal at 5 p.m. on the Grand Hall Overlook inside the National Constitution Center.
On November 6, National Constitution Center President and CEO Jeffrey Rosen will unveil his newest book, Conversations with RBG: Ruth Bader Ginsburg on Life, Love, Liberty, and Law—an informal portrait of the justice through an extraordinary series of conversations, starting in the 1990s and continuing through today.
PLEASE NOTE:
Liberty Medal Ceremony, Sunday, October 27 – Museum CLOSED to the general public
Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 28 – CLOSED
Christmas Eve, Tuesday, December 24 – Shortened museum hours, 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Christmas Day, Wednesday, December 25 – CLOSED
New Year’s Eve, Tuesday, December 31 – Shortened museum hours, 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
New Year’s Day, Wednesday, January 1 – CLOSED
October Events
Civil War and Reconstruction Onsite Educational Programming
Regular museum hours
Free with general admission
In conjunction with the opening of Civil War and Reconstruction: The Battle for Freedom and Equality, and the ongoing commemorations of the 150th anniversaries of the American Civil War and the Reconstruction period, the National Constitution Center offers various onsite educational programs to engage visitors of all ages with this pivotal era in constitutional history. The onsite experience introduces visitors to central topics, including slavery in the Constitution, the Civil War and the role of the federal government, citizenship, the goals of Reconstruction and its successes and failures, key figures of the era, and the legacy of Reconstruction today. A full list of special programs and schedules can be found here.
We the People Live featuring SCOTUStalk: A Supreme Court Preview
Tuesday, October 1, 6:30 p.m.
Free for 1787 Society Members, $10 Members, teachers, and students, $18 Non-Members
Don’t miss a special live podcast recording of We the People with Jeffrey Rosen, the National Constitution Center’s weekly show of constitutional debate, featuring hosts from SCOTUStalk, the podcast from SCOTUSblog, that takes a “plain English” look at events and topics relating to the Supreme Court. Jeffrey Rosen, host of We the People, will join John Elwood and Amy Howe of SCOTUStalk for an in-depth discussion about the upcoming Supreme Court term. CLE credit available. In partnership with SCOTUSblog.
Clerks at 100: Academic Symposium Featuring Former Supreme Court Clerks in Washington, D.C.
Friday, October 4, 1 – 4 p.m.
Free
In celebration of the 100th anniversary of the federal statute creating clerkships at the Supreme Court, the National Constitution Center and The George Washington Law Review present a free, public symposium in Washington, D.C. on Friday, October 4. The program will feature three panels of former clerks from academia, the judiciary, and private practice, discussing their experiences during and after their clerkships and the future of the clerkship institution. The symposium will also be streamed live at constitutioncenter.org/live.
Hillary Rodham Clinton and Chelsea Clinton: The Book of Gutsy Women
Monday, October 7, 6:30 p.m.
Free for 1787 Society Members, $40 Members, teachers, and students, $45 Non-Members
Hillary Rodham Clinton and her daughter, Chelsea Clinton, join the National Constitution Center as they unveil their new book, The Book of Gutsy Women: Favorite Stories of Courage and Resilience. The Clintons will share the stories of the women who have inspired them throughout history and around the globe. Admission includes a copy of The Book of Gutsy Women.
Saturday Teacher Seminar Series: Voting Rights
Saturday, October 12, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Free, but registration is required
Teacher Seminars take place on select Saturdays throughout the 2019-2020 school year. This full-day seminar will focus on voting rights.
FOURTEEN: A Theatrical Performance
Mondays through Fridays, October 14 through December 6; please check the daily program guide upon arrival for that day’s show times.
Free with general admission, group reservations recommended
Visitors can experience FOURTEEN, a moving theatrical performance that sheds light on the Reconstruction era and the ratification of the 14th Amendment. Through dramatic interpretation of original texts, such as Frederick Douglass’s open letter “To My Old Master,” the 35-minute performance brings to life the leaders, influential figures, and everyday Americans who were central to the era. This production has been supported by The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage.
Members-Only Special Event: The Journey of an Artifact: From Storage to Exhibition (An Archives Month Philly Event)
Wednesday, October 16, 11 a.m.
Free for Members
In conjunction with Archives Month Philly, a celebration of historical archives and archival work, the National Constitution Center will offer an exclusive look at the artifacts in the feature exhibit Hamilton: The Constitutional Clashes that Shaped a Nation. National Constitution Center Exhibition Developer Elena Popchock and Registrar Theresa Altieri Taplin will discuss the objects that were brought together for the Hamilton exhibit during a special tour. Members will learn where the items came from, why they were selected for the exhibition, how the Center displays them safely in the exhibit, and more.
Disinformation and What We Can Do About It
Thursday, October 17, 6:30 p.m.
This program is now sold out, but will be streamed live at constitutioncenter.org/live
Richard Stengel, journalist, former Under Secretary of State, and former head of the National Constitution Center, provides an insider account of his time at the highest levels of government in the fight against the global rise of disinformation as described in his book, Information Wars: How We Lost the Global Battle Against Disinformation and What We Can Do About It. A book sale and signing will follow the program.
Members-Only Guided Tour of Hamilton
Wednesday, October 23, 10 a.m.
Free for Members
Members get an in-depth look at the Center’s Hamilton: The Constitutional Clashes that Shaped a Nation exhibit before it closes in December with this Members-only guided tour.
Scout Days: Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA
Saturday, October 26, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Merit Badge Counseling: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Scouts $14, Adults $12, one free chaperon for every 10 scouts
On Scout Days, scouts and their leaders can learn about American history and the importance of good citizenship—all while meeting merit badge or adventure requirements. Groups receive customized agendas featuring a wide variety of activities, including tours, workshops, and games. All scouts will receive a National Constitution Center Scout Day Fun Patch.
2019 Liberty Medal Ceremony
Sunday, October 27, 5 p.m.
Information on ceremony tickets can be found at: constitutioncenter.org/liberty-medal/ceremony
On Sunday, October 27, the National Constitution Center will award its 31st annual Liberty Medal to Justice Anthony M. Kennedy, for his efforts to preserve, protect, and defend liberty by inspiring Americans of all ages to learn about the Constitution through civic education and civil dialogue. The ceremony will take place on the Grand Hall Overlook inside the National Constitution Center at 5 p.m. Seating is limited for Members of the National Constitution Center and general public. The Center will be closed for museum admission on October 27 in preparation for the ceremony. PLEASE NOTE: Credentials are required for press entry to this event. Press interested should visit constitutioncenter.org/liberty-medal/media-info for more information.
Members-Only Guided Tour of Civil War and Reconstruction
Tuesday, October 29, 5 p.m.
Free for Members
Members can experience a guided tour of Civil War and Reconstruction: The Battle for Freedom and Equality, before the America’s Town Hall program, The Second Founding: How the Civil War and Reconstruction Remade the Constitution with Eric Foner. A museum educator will guide Members through the exhibit featuring key figures central to the era—from Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass to John Bingham and Harriet Tubman—and discuss how the equality promised in the Declaration of Independence was finally inscribed in the Constitution by the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments, collectively known as the Reconstruction Amendments.
The Second Founding: How the Civil War and Reconstruction Remade the Constitution
Tuesday, October 29, 6:30 p.m.
This program is now sold out, however simulcast tickets are available.
Join Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Eric Foner for a timely discussion about the history of the battle to inscribe equality into the Constitution. The Declaration of Independence declared the truth of equality to be self-evident, but it took the Civil War and the adoption of three constitutional amendments to establish that ideal as part of our fundamental law. Foner will trace the arc of the Reconstruction amendments from their dramatic pre-Civil War origins to today. Jeffrey Rosen, president and CEO of the National Constitution Center, moderates. A book sale and signing will follow the program. CLE credit available. In conjunction with the Center’s exhibit Civil War and Reconstruction: The Battle for Freedom and Equality.
November Events
Scout Days: Girl Scouts of the USA
Saturday, November 2, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.,
Scouts $14, Adults $12, one free chaperon for every 10 scouts
Girl Scouts can participate in programs designed to meet requirements for their Citizen Legacy Badge, as well as select Journey requirements. Girls will also journey back in time to learn about our nation’s greatest women heroes, from suffragists to Supreme Court justices at programs including women’s history trivia games and a one-of-a-kind music video workshop. All Girl Scouts will receive a National Constitution Center Scout Day Fun Patch.
Conversations with RBG: A Book Talk and Signing with Jeffrey Rosen
Wednesday, November 6, 6:30 p.m.
Free for 1787 Society Members, $10 Members, teachers, and students, $18 Non-Members
National Constitution Center President and CEO Jeffrey Rosen unveils his newest book, Conversations with RBG: Ruth Bader Ginsburg on Life, Love, Liberty, and Law—an informal portrait of the justice through an extraordinary series of conversations, starting in the 1990s and continuing to today. With Justice Ginsburg’s approval, Rosen has collected her wisdom from their many conversations in which she discusses the future of the Supreme Court and Roe v. Wade, her favorite dissents, the cases she would most like to see overruled, the #MeToo movement, how to be a good listener, and how to lead a productive, compassionate life. These frank exchanges illuminate the determination, self-mastery, and wit that have inspired women and men of all ages to embrace the “Notorious RBG.” Dahlia Lithwick, veteran Supreme Court reporter, moderates. A book sale and signing will follow the program. A private reception for 1787 Society Members will precede the program from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Please note: Justice Ginsburg is not participating in this event.
Members-Only Guided Tour of Hamilton
Sunday, November 10, 11:30 a.m.
Free for Members
Members get an in-depth look at the Center’s Hamilton: The Constitutional Clashes that Shaped a Nation exhibit before it closes in December with this Members-only guided tour.
Veterans Day
Monday, November 11, regular museum hours
Free with general admission, free admission for all veterans
In honor of Veterans Day, the National Constitution Center will recognize the dedication and sacrifices of the brave people who have answered the Constitution’s call to “provide for the common defense.” Special events include a wreath laying ceremony, patriotic concerts, visitor “chats” with veterans, and engaging civic education programs. At activity stations, guests can write thank you letters to veterans and make patriotic crafts, including star wreaths and poppy pins.
Scout Days: Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA
Saturday, November 16, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Merit Badge Counseling: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Scouts $14, Adults $12, one free chaperon for every 10 scouts
On Scout Days, scouts and their leaders can learn about American history and the importance of good citizenship—all while meeting merit badge or adventure requirements. Groups receive customized agendas featuring a wide variety of activities, including tours, workshops, and games. All scouts will receive a National Constitution Center Scout Day Fun Patch.
Beyond Partisan Gerrymandering and Term Limits: What’s Next for American Democracy?
Wednesday, November 20, 6:30 p.m.
Free for 1787 Society Members, $10 Members, teachers, and students, $18 Non-Members
Join leading thought leaders and constitutional scholars—including Larry Lessig, author of the new book They Don't Represent Us: Reclaiming Our Democracy—for a panel discussion of the future of elections, term limits, and other reforms after the Supreme Court’s decision in Rucho v. Common Cause last term, and what American democracy might look like in 2020 and beyond. Sponsored by John Aglialoro.
Thanksgiving Weekend
Friday, November 29, through Sunday, December 1, regular museum hours
Free with general admission
Over Thanksgiving weekend, the National Constitution Center invites visitors to enjoy a variety of special programs and activities. The interactive “History of Thanksgiving” explores the origins and importance of this national holiday. Visitors will learn about the Wampanoag people who lived in what is now New England and their culture, as well as the historic meal they shared with European settlers in 1621 and the events leading up to the harvest feast that year. The program also touches on the role Presidents Washington and Lincoln played in making Thanksgiving a national holiday and looks at some favorite Thanksgiving traditions, like the annual turkey pardon. At special talk-back discussions led by our education staff, visitors will learn about Native American history beyond the historic meal shared by the Plymouth settlers and the Wampanoag people. The talk will highlight key people and moments in Native American history, from a constitutional perspective.
School Supplies Drive
Friday, November 29, through Monday, January 21
$2 off admission
From Thanksgiving weekend through Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, January 20, 2020, the National Constitution Center invites visitors to donate newly purchased school supplies such as pens, pencils, crayons, copy paper, and folders for Philadelphia schools. Visitors making a school supply donation will receive $2 off admission through Sunday, January 19, 2020. Donations can be dropped off at the Center’s box office during museum hours, and will be distributed to Philadelphia schools following Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service.
December Events
The Fourth Amendment and Privacy: Historical Perspectives
Thursday, December 5, 9 – 11:45 a.m.
This program is now sold out, but will be streamed live at constitutioncenter.org/live
Join three back-to-back discussions featuring leading federal judges and legal scholars for an exploration of the Fourth Amendment’s guarantees against unreasonable searches and seizures—from its origins at America’s founding to its interpretation today in light of rapidly changing technologies. This program is presented in partnership with the Federal Judicial Center.
The Girl in the Picture: Remembering Vietnam
Friday, December 6, 12 p.m.
Free for Members, $5 Teachers and students, $8 Non-Members
On June 8, 1972, the South Vietnamese air force dropped napalm on its own troops and civilians after mistaking them for North Vietnamese forces. Nine-year-old Kim Phúc Phan Thi, who was severely injured, was running from the bombed village when an Associated Press photographer captured her and others in one of the most iconic photographs from the Vietnam War, which later won the Pulitzer Prize. Join Kim Phúc Phan Thi, as she discusses her firsthand experience, and classical composer and jazz trumpeter Hannibal Lokumbe for a unique discussion on the Vietnam War and its impact. A special performance by Lokumbe will precede the discussion.
Sensory-Friendly Sunday
Sunday, December 8, regular museum hours
Free with general admission
Sensory-Friendly Sundays at the National Constitution Center incorporate a variety of programs and learning techniques developed for visitors with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Sensory Processing Disorders, intellectual disabilities, and other neurodevelopmental disabilities into the everyday visitor experience.
Members-Only Guided Tour of Hamilton
Monday, December 9, 11 a.m.
Free for Members
Members get an in-depth look at the Center’s Hamilton: The Constitutional Clashes that Shaped a Nation exhibit before it closes in December with this Members-only guided tour. This will be the second to last tour offered for Members before the exhibit closes at the end of 2019.
Members-Only Guided Tour of Civil War and Reconstruction
Thursday, December 12, 10:30 a.m.
Free for Members
Members can experience a guided tour of Civil War and Reconstruction: The Battle for Freedom and Equality. A museum educator will guide Members through the exhibit featuring key figures central to the era—from Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass to John Bingham and Harriet Tubman—and discuss how the equality promised in the Declaration of Independence was finally inscribed in the Constitution by the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments, collectively known as the Reconstruction Amendments.
Bill of Rights Day
Sunday, December 15, regular museum hours
Free with general admission
Visitors can celebrate the anniversary of the Bill of Rights at the National Constitution Center by viewing a copy of the historic Bill of Rights and learning about the first 10 amendments during interactive games and shows. Visitors can also take a special tour of Signers’ Hall to learn about the history of the Bill of Rights and why it was left out of the original U.S. Constitution.
Members-Only Guided Tour of Hamilton
Monday, December 16, 5 p.m.
Free for Members
Members get an in-depth look at the Center’s Hamilton: The Constitutional Clashes that Shaped a Nation exhibit before it closes in December with this Members-only guided tour. This will be the final tour offered for Members before the exhibit closes at the end of 2019.
Winter Break: Hamilton Holiday Celebration
Thursday, December 26 – Monday, December 30, regular museum hours
Tuesday, December 31, 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Free with general admission
Before the closing of the Hamilton: The Constitutional Clashes That Shaped a Nation exhibit on December 31, the Center will celebrate one of our nation’s favorite Founders with a week of engaging educational programs during a Hamilton Holiday Celebration at the National Constitution Center. Visitors can learn about Alexander Hamilton’s time in the Continental Army as they step into the shoes of one of General Washington’s soldiers, and participate in drills and marches during the Center’s Military Muster program. At historic character meet-and-greets, visitors can chat with some of the founding figures that knew Hamilton best. Other programs include a Hamilton trivia game, 18th century games, arts and crafts activities, and colonial dress-up stations.
Please note: All programs are subject to change. Please call 215-409-6700 or visit constitutioncenter.org for the most up-to-date program information.
Ticket Information
General Admission: Adults $14.50; Youth (6-18) $11; Students w/ID and Seniors $13. Members, active military personnel, and children ages 5 and under are free.
Admission for 15 or more is $7.50 for student and youth groups; $9 for adult and senior groups.
*Visit constitutioncenter.org for the most up-to-date ticket information.
The National Constitution Center is located at 525 Arch Street on Philadelphia’s Independence Mall. The Center is open 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays.
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About the National Constitution Center
The National Constitution Center in Philadelphia brings together people of all ages and perspectives, across America and around the world, to learn about, debate, and celebrate the greatest vision of human freedom in history, the U.S. Constitution. A private, nonprofit organization, the Center serves as America’s leading platform for constitutional education and debate, fulfilling its congressional charter “to disseminate information about the U.S. Constitution on a nonpartisan basis.” As the Museum of We the People, the Center brings the Constitution to life for visitors of all ages through interactive programs and exhibits. As America’s Town Hall, the Center brings the leading conservative and liberal thought leaders together to debate the Constitution on all media platforms. As a Headquarters for Civic Education, the Center delivers the best educational programs and online resources that inspire citizens and engage all Americans in learning about the U.S. Constitution. For more information, call 215-409-6700 or visit constitutioncenter.org.
Download Press Release
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About the National Constitution Center
The National Constitution Center in Philadelphia brings together people of all ages and perspectives, across America and around the world, to learn about, debate, and celebrate the greatest vision of human freedom in history, the U.S. Constitution. A private, nonprofit organization, the Center serves as America’s leading platform for constitutional education and debate, fulfilling its congressional charter “to disseminate information about the U.S. Constitution on a nonpartisan basis.” As the Museum of We the People, the Center brings the Constitution to life for visitors of all ages through interactive programs and exhibits. As America’s Town Hall, the Center brings the leading conservative and liberal thought leaders together to debate the Constitution on all media platforms. As a Headquarters for Civic Education, the Center delivers the best educational programs and online resources that inspire citizens and engage all Americans in learning about the U.S. Constitution. For more information, call 215-409-6700 or visit constitutioncenter.org.
