Join us for a panel discussion on Timothy Egan's "A Fever in the Heartland" at First Presbyterian Church fellowship hall in Evansville's historic district.
On Wednesday, February 19, 2025, the Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library will facilitate an important and timely panel discussion titled A Fever in the Heartland, focusing on the historical and contemporary impact of the Ku Klux Klan (KKK), racism, and faith in Evansville, Indiana. The event will be held at the First Presbyterian Church, located at 609 SE Second St. in Evansville, and is free and open to the public.
This enlightening discussion will be led by a distinguished panel of experts, including Rev. MB McCandless of First Presbyterian Church (PCUSA), Dr. M.T. Hallock Morris from the University of Southern Indiana, Dr. Daniel Byrne from the University of Evansville, and Mr. Gerald Summers, retired Director of Safety, EVSC, and former police officer.
Each panelist will bring their unique perspectives on how the rise of the KKK in the 1920s shaped the social and cultural fabric of Evansville, as well as the broader implications of racism and the role of faith in navigating these challenges.
The discussion will explore the historical roots of the Klan's presence in the region, its influence on local communities, and how these issues continue to resonate in modern Evansville and in modern times across all places. Panelists will also examine the role of faith-based organizations and leaders in combating racial injustice and fostering unity in a community torn by racial divisions.
This event offers a rare opportunity for community members to reflect on the past, understand its lasting effects, and engage in a dialogue about how we can move forward together in creating a more inclusive and just society. The panel discussion will encourage attendees to ask tough questions and participate in meaningful conversations that promote understanding and healing.
Don't miss this chance to engage with history, faith, and social justice in Evansville.
Join us for the SPEAK presentation featuring the author, Timothy Egan, on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, again at First Presbyterian in downtown Evansville, presented by the EVPL Foundation. Learn more about this at www.evpl.org/speak2025.
Please contact Programming@evpl.org with questions.
DISCLAIMER: Due to the sensitive nature of some topics explored in the book, this discussion may not be suitable for all audiences. Some topics of the discussion may trigger prior traumas or difficult experiences for some individuals. We encourage audience members to feel welcome to step away from the discussion as necessary.
AGE GROUP: | General (All Ages) |
EVENT TYPE: | Community Interest | Books/Literature/Writing |
TAGS: | SPEAK | Book Discussion |
*See event details for location information*
