Thomas Paine Day -Liberty and Justice for All: 250 Years of Progress Since 1776

The program will begin with a reading of excerpts from the Declaration of Independence by students and a brief discussion with Paine scholars Gary Berton and Scott Cleary addressing Paine’s role during 1776 and the new insights to be gained from publication this year of six volumes of Paine’s Collected Writings. Several elected officials will receive a Thomas Paine Legacy Award certificate honoring their long-term support to the Paine historical sites in New Rochelle. The program will conclude with an imaginary dialogue between Thomas Paine and the late Jesse Jackson, bringing out principles they both promoted around democracy, civil rights, and equality. Following the program, conversations will continue outdoors on the Building grounds, weather permitting, with jazz music by the Brian Carter Quintet, and light refreshments. Free and open to the public.