Events

Whitman sought to create “a new gospel of beauty”: a uniquely American voice. He escaped the Classic Structures demanded of verse, and gave us the free form voice that has become standard today. Whitman, a volunteer in military hospitals during the civil war, mourned the assassination of President Lincoln with the well-known “Oh Captain! My Captain!” His last days were spent in Camden, NJ and in his refuge in nature at the Stafford Farm and Timber Creek.

David Scott Taylor
First Person Interpreter

This traveling exhibit from the African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey details the role of New Jersey citizens in the Civil Rights movement. Free and self-guided.

In partnership with the City of Woodbury and their state Municipal Alliance grant we will present a lunch with jazz music by Gil Lewis, soul food by Sunset II. County officials will discuss appropriate prescription drug disposal. Gil and Joann (Sunset) will discuss the impacts on imported African traditions, specifically music and food in the United States. We will solicit participants' memories of their own traditions and if they have changed, how. The program is free, RSVP required.

Did Prohibition change the music of the 1920s? And did the Cold War impact the music of the 1950s? Yes, music - concert and popular - music was influenced by the technological and political changes. From the late 1800s to today, the times have shaped what and how American hear and experience opera, concert works, musicals, jazz, country and folk music, and rock and roll. In this session, participants can tune into a discussion about the sounds, aesthetics, and auras of each decade in the modern era.

Robert W. Butts, Ph.D.
Conductor & Educator

It’s time to talk about the way that black men are portrayed in the media. In early film and television, black characters were strictly categorized. From brutal savages to submissives, from characters of comic fodder to lazy subhuman creatures, the typical black man was only presented in specific and offensive ways. Fast forward to the new millennium and black men are often portrayed as criminals and thugs. This has contributed to the perceptions of black men as “Suspect Number 1.” In this session, participants will explore these stereotypical portrayals and discuss how this affects bias against black men in society.

Donnetrice C. Allison, Ph.D.
Professor of Communication Studies and Africana Studies at Stockton University

Bringing his vigorous persona (and his boisterous family) to the White House, “TR” helped catapult the U.S. into a new century. War hero to Nobel Peace Prize winner, naturalist to imperialist, The 26th President promoted progressive reform and stronger government control of business. Believing that the security of the American People would be achieved through leadership on the World Stage, President Roosevelt expanded U.S. influence around the globe.

Peyton Dixon
First Person Interpreter

Invited applicants may submit one draft for review by June 7, 2019.

To learn more visit: https://njhumanities.org/grants.

In your eyes, what does it mean to be Muslim? How has the media and popular culture influenced how you see Muslims and Islam? In this session, participants will examine the history and presence of Islam in the United States, and the construction and evolution of U.S. Muslim identity, community, and culture from the colonial era to the present. The incredible racial and ethnic heterogeneity of American Muslim communities; the myriad of ways that Muslim practice (or do not practice) Islam; and how "Muslim" intersects with racial/ethnic categories such as "Arab," "Asian," and "Black” will all be explored through open, guided conversation.

Sylvia Chan-Malik, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor in the Departments of American and Women’s and Gender Studies at Rutgers University

Baseball is a national pastime. It holds a special place in the hearts of many Americans. Why? An interactive look at the history - did you know that the first baseball diamond was in Hoboken? – and an exploration of why many associate so many memories and emotions with the game will spark conversation and camaraderie. Bring the peanuts and the crackerjacks and learn more about why many think so fondly back to that first game.

Stanton Green, Ph.D.
Professor of Anthropology at Monmouth University

The 2020 Census is coming and it counts — in more ways than one.

The Census isn’t just a population tally. State and local governments, businesses, nonprofits and foundations, rely on Census data to allocate funding, define where services are delivered, and promote economic development. The information is valuable for health care, education, housing, transportation, and business. It helps determine congressional representation, political participation, and other fundamentals of community wellbeing and American democracy.

To register for this event, visit www.cnjg.org

The influence of writer and social critic James Baldwin reached far and wide. In this unique exploration of Baldwin’s groundbreaking literary and social justice work, actor/comic Grant Cooper and scholar Dr. Lindsey Swindall engage participants in an interactive dialogue that unravels the truths of racism in this country and examines other themes in Baldwin’s writings. Mr. Cooper’s dramatic interpretations of Baldwin’s writing are complemented by historical context from Dr. Swindall, leading to thought provoking questions that spark audience participation.

Lindsey Swindall, Ph.D. & Grant Cooper
Educator at Stevens Institute of Technology & Comedian

This is a command performance from the Woodbury community that changes annually and is a reflection on African American Narratives, Spirituals and Poetry. Free and open to the public.

Controversies about transgender students, athletes, and service members have, in recent years, drawn attention to the challenges gender nonconforming people face in public life. Have you asked yourself about your level of awareness of these about these issues? In this session, participants will explore, through informed conversations and using specific examples, why labels are so complex and whether gender categories are ever useful.

Kiki Jamieson, Ph.D.
President of The Fund for New Jersey

Presented by Gene Armstead, Jr., President of the African-American Historical & Genealogical Society New Jersey chapter. This session will provide discussion and guidance on researching family genealogy when traditional stories may not tell the whole truth and historical documents may exclude your ancestors. Free and open to the public.

The influence of writer and social critic James Baldwin reached far and wide. In this unique exploration of Baldwin’s groundbreaking literary and social justice work, actor/comic Grant Cooper and scholar Dr. Lindsey Swindall engage participants in an interactive dialogue that unravels the truths of racism in this country and examines other themes in Baldwin’s writings. Mr. Cooper’s dramatic interpretations of Baldwin’s writing are complemented by historical context from Dr. Swindall, leading to thought provoking questions that spark audience participation.

Lindsey Swindall, Ph.D. & Grant Cooper
Educator at Stevens Institute of Technology & Comedian

Washington was no stranger to New Jersey. From Trenton to Princeton to Morristown to Monmouth to Middlebrook, (and more), the General spent more time here than in any other state. Join General Washington as he reminisces about his brightest and darkest moments during the battles and encampments of the “Cockpit of the Revolution.” In this session, participants will learn more about New Jersey's role in the American Revolution from the perspective of George Washington.

David Emerson
Historical Interpreter and Storyteller

Bruce Springsteen expects attentiveness of his listeners. How do we know this? Over the past 50 years, Springsteen has written songs and created music that have been experienced by countless fans. But many don’t know the extent to which his work has been influenced by the American folk tradition. Through experimental reinterpretation and the creation of new traditions, The Boss has worked within known folk traditions, but at the same time, created new sounds and messages. In this session, participants can learn about some of the works that have influenced one of Jersey’s most celebrated musical artists.

Prudence Jones, Ph.D.
Professor at Montclair University

How often do you get to hear music and then have a high-energy conversation about its role in historical traditions, its cultural influence, and its style and technique? Until the early twentieth century, the fiddle was the centerpiece of American folk music and folk culture. In this interactive session, Backes explores the origins and history of American fiddle music—covering a range of styles and modes of expression—and raises along the way big questions about musical tradition and music making.

Matthew Backes, Ph.D.
American Studies at Rutgers University

Final applications must be submitted through our online system by the 11:59 p.m. on June 20, 2019. Materials submitted late will not be considered.

To learn more visit: https://njhumanities.org/grants.

Never Caught details Ona Judge's escape from the Washington's and their pursuit of her. Additional discussion about the impact of abolitionists in Philadelphia and New Jersey per Dunbar's book, Fragile Freedom. Admission is$20, which includes a copy of Never Caught. Under 18 are free with a paid adult.

Washington was no stranger to New Jersey. From Trenton to Princeton to Morristown to Monmouth to Middlebrook, (and more), the General spent more time here than in any other state. Join General Washington as he reminisces about his brightest and darkest moments during the battles and encampments of the “Cockpit of the Revolution.” In this session, participants will learn more about New Jersey's role in the American Revolution from the perspective of George Washington.

David Emerson
Historical Interpreter and Storyteller

It’s a good thing that Elizabeth White of Whitesbog, along with Dr. Coville, proved that the “swamp huckleberry” could be cultivated. Without their determination, we might not have the cultivated the blueberry of the Pinelands that we have today. This wonder fruit, historically known for its healing qualities, has been an important part of New Jersey’s agricultural history. In this session, participants will learn more about the blueberry’s Jersey roots, healthful benefits, and ways to prepare and savor these delightful berries.

Judith Krall-Russo
Tea & Food Scholar

Unlike autobiography, memoir is based on the idea that everyone has a story to tell, a story that matters. Writing memoir asks that one awaken and be guided by empathy towards oneself and others. In this way, memoir prompts a journey of self-discovery that enables writers to gain insights into their past. Through lessons in the craft of memoir, the exploration of editorial revisions, and invaluable writing suggestions, participants learn how to develop a writing practice and continue their writing life beyond the session.

Edvige Giunta, Ph.D.
Professor of English at New Jersey City University

Check back for the registration link.

This workshop will be held in North Jersey. Location TBD.

The best programs are built with the needs and interests of your audience in mind. Learn about strategies for involving your community at every stage of your project, from development to implementation.

Is it better to set a guilty person free or lock up an innocent person? How certain must guilt be to justify punishment? If you were on trial, would you trust the criminal justice system to treat you fairly? This session explores, in a practical way, the U.S. justice system – how it works, when it works, and what can be done when it doesn’t work.

Kiki Jamieson, Ph.D.
President of The Fund for New Jersey

Bringing his vigorous persona (and his boisterous family) to the White House, “TR” helped catapult the U.S. into a new century. War hero to Nobel Peace Prize winner, naturalist to imperialist, The 26th President promoted progressive reform and stronger government control of business. Believing that the security of the American People would be achieved through leadership on the World Stage, President Roosevelt expanded U.S. influence around the globe.

Peyton Dixon
First Person Interpreter

At one point, Vincent van Gogh wrote to his brother that since he had no children, he viewed his paintings as his progeny. A painter and pastor, van Gogh produced more than 2,000 “brilliant children.” In this session, dozens of his works of art, with a focus on pieces at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, will be explored. An overview of his life experiences and how it influenced his art will lead to a lively discussion, which will include talking about the differences between experiencing original artwork and reproductions.

Michael Norris, Ph.D.
Art Historian

In 1852 Harriet Beecher Stowe published “Uncle Tom’s Cabin, or Life Among the Lowly” which helped move the conscience of the country to imperative cause of Abolitionism. Her story energized anti-slavery forces in the North, while provoking widespread anger in the pro-slavery South. Allegedly, when she met Abraham Lincoln, he said, “So you are the little woman that wrote the book that started this great war?”

Kim Hanley
First Person Interpreter

Have you ever thought about how New Jersey was created? Perhaps you’ve wondered about how East and West Jersey came to be? Or you’ve considered how life changed for landowners as the American Revolution intensified? The way the state developed before, during, and after the revolution, including some of its distinctive features that still remain today, is fascinating. In this session, significant topics like New Jersey’s role in politics, transportation, trade, and agricultural on the eve of revolution will be explored.

Jonathan Mercantini, Ph.D.
Acting Dean, College of Liberal Arts and Associate Professor of History at Kean University

When many think of adventure and exploration, exotic locations and ancient civilizations may come to mind. However, urban exploration, or “UrbEx,” can happen in our backyards. There’s a lot that can be learned from uninhibited and abandoned landscape. In this session, through case studies from the tristate area, participants will examine abandoned properties and the narratives that accompany them. The value of learning about these abandoned spaces in our backyards as well as the safety and ethical aspects of UrbEx will be discussed.

Luke Boyd
Public Historian