NCW Libraries to host virtual Community Conversations on U.S. History and Civic Life

WENATCHEE — NCW Libraries will host a series of free virtual community conversations in July in partnership with Oregon Humanities as part of discussions tied to the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

The online programs are designed to encourage participants to reflect on U.S. history, explore lesser-known stories and engage with a variety of perspectives about the nation's past, present and future. The conversations will be facilitated and are intended to provide opportunities for discussion and shared learning.

The first program, “To What Do We Pledge?,” is scheduled for July 16 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The discussion will examine themes of support, solidarity and mutual responsibility through the closing pledge of the Declaration of Independence.

The session will be led by Wendy Willis, founding director of Oregon’s Kitchen Table, a community engagement program housed at Portland State University.

A second program, “What Does Freedom Depend On?,” will be held July 28 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Participants will discuss the origins of freedom in the United States, how concepts of freedom have changed over time and how individual freedoms relate to those of others.

Jennifer Alkezweeny, program director for Oregon Humanities since 2020, will facilitate the July 28 conversation.

NCW Libraries also plans a third virtual discussion, “What Does It Mean To Be American,” on Aug. 13.

Registration for the free programs is available through the NCW Libraries online calendar at www.ncwlibraries.org.

NCW Libraries serves North Central Washington through 30 community libraries, a bookmobile and a mail-order library.