Seeing Our Humanity: A Signature Event of ‘Justice for All’

The public is invited to attend a signature event at Oatlands on July 25 called “Seeing Our Humanity,” which brings together descendants from all four National Historic Trust Sites of enslavement in Virginia for an afternoon of speakers, music and fellowship.

1-1:15 p.m. Welcome remarks

1:15-2 p.m. A conversation with National Trust for Historic Preservation President and CEO Brent Leggs and Djimon Hounsou, an Academy Award-nominated actor, humanitarian and founder of the Djimon Hounsou Foundation, which champions connection and healing the wounds of slavery.

2:15-3:15 p.m. How We Remember: Memorials and the Stories We Tell – A discussion moderated by Nakita Reed, senior director for Preservation Operations, African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund at the National Trust for Historic Preservation

3:30-4:15 p.m. From Reckoning to Repair: Paths Toward Justice and Belonging – A discussion moderated by Tiffany Tolbert, co-director of the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund at the National Trust for Historic Preservation

4:15-4:30 p.m. Closing session

During breaks, enjoy musical performances by the Washington Revels’ ensemble Jubilee Voices.

To commemorate the nation’s 250^th birthday, four National Trust Historic Sites in Virginia that were all sites of enslavement – Woodlawn, Belle Grove Plantation, Montpelier and Oatlands – are hosting a descendant-centered series of programs called America 250: Justice for All. These community gatherings, tours, exhibits and workshops explore voices essential to understanding our nation’s history. View the full schedule of events. “Seeing Our Humanity” is the culmination of the series.

Admission to “Seeing Our Humanity” is free with registration. (Register here)