America’s Conflicting Constitutional Visions: The Quest for Common Ground

America’s political polarization is often fueled by clashes between two rival visions of the Constitution—one traditionalist, one progressive. Yet both interpretations are deeply rooted in the Constitution itself.

In this thought-provoking lecture, Rogers M. Smith—a leading scholar of American constitutional law and political thought—explores how the Reconstruction Amendments—the 13th, 14th, and 15th—embody elements of both visions, and how they may offer a shared sense of national purpose that can guide us toward common ground today.

Join us for an evening of reflection, history, and dialogue on how the Constitution continues to shape America’s future.

About the Speaker
Rogers M. Smith is the Christopher H. Browne Distinguished Emeritus Professor of Political Science at the University of Pennsylvania. A leading scholar of American constitutional law and political thought, he is the author of nine books, including Civic Ideals (Pulitzer Prize finalist) and America’s New Racial Battle Lines (2024). He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and a past president of the American Political Science Association.

This event is co-hosted by Media Fellowship House and Media Area NAACP. Thank you to Media Upper-Providence Library for welcoming us to their space to hold this event.

Free
A suggested donation of $10 will support community programs at Media Fellowship House