Three Civil Rights Scholars to Discuss the FDR Library and Museum’s Special Exhibition, “Black Americans, Civil Rights, and the Roosevelts”

POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. — NOV. 7, 2024 — The Dutchess Community College Foundation (DCCF) will host a panel discussion featuring a distinguished group of civil rights scholars who will provide fresh perspectives on Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelts’ intervention in the struggle for Black equality during the Jim Crow era. 

The panel, which will take place in the College’s James & Betty Hall Theatre on Nov. 21 at 7 p.m., will focus on the research, design and public reception of the FDR Library’s 2023-24 special exhibition, “Black Americans, Civil Rights, and the Roosevelts, 1932-1962.” Through previously unseen letters, images and recordings, the exhibit reveals fresh perspectives on the Roosevelts' involvement in advancing Black civil rights, with Eleanor Roosevelt’s collaboration with Black civil rights leaders serving as a notable example.

Panelists will share their perspectives on the planning and research for the exhibit, discuss the public’s response and explore what this historical moment can teach us about the ongoing struggle for social justice today.

Panelists:

  • Dr. Taneisha N. Means, associate professor of political science, Vassar College
  • Jeffrey Urbin, education specialist, Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum
  • Herman Eberhardt, supervisory curator, Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum

The panel will be facilitated by Dr. Andrew Rieser, DCC professor of history and recipient of the Handel Family Endowed Faculty Chair to Perpetuate the Legacy of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt. 

This is a free community event. For more information, visit the DCC events calendar at sunydutchess.edu/events or call the DCCF at (845) 431-8407. If you require sign language interpreting services or special accommodations, please make your request at least two weeks before the event by reaching out to Linda Bertolozzi at (845) 431-8058 or bertoloz@sunydutchess.edu. Visitors are encouraged to park in Lot D (GPS address: 97 Cottage Road, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601).

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Founded in 1957, Dutchess Community College is a two-year community college that has earned a reputation for providing an outstanding education and offers one of the lowest tuition rates in New York state. The College currently has four locations including its main campus in Poughkeepsie, DCC @ Fishkill, DCC @ HVR Airport, and DCC @ the Family Partnership Center. For more information visit www.sunydutchess.edu.