W&M Featured Events

Location

The 1619 Making of America Summit will explore the 400-year journey of our founding cultures—Native, African, and English peoples, immigrant stories, and the contributions and influences that have shaped the building of America. The summit will highlight the three pillars of the commemoration: Diversity, Democracy, and Opportunity. At the foundation of this cross-cultural event will be the question: “Who are we as Americans?”

Leading with the African American voice, over the course of two days, scholars, thought leaders, artists, filmmakers, dignitaries, and students will delve into America’s current and historic chronicle with a lens towards more inclusive narratives and perspectives on the future. 

The 1619 Making of America Summit will provide an opportunity to review who we are as Americans and the enduring quality and importance of, as author James Baldwin’s words suggest, “Our history is our present, and we cannot run away from it.” 

Each day scholars, thought leaders, artists, filmmakers, dignitaries, and students will participate in keynote addresses, round table conversations, breakout sessions, and panel discussions.

Contact

757-253-4219