The Declaration of Independence acknowledges a most volatile right: the people's right to rebel. If the people are not happy with their government, then it is within their unalienable rights to "alter and abolish it." In 1776, that right was exercised through armed rebellion. But is that the only way to exercise that right?

In 1963, John Lewis envisioned a different sort of revolution, one that would achieve the ends of freedom and liberty​ through non-violent means. In this "unfinished revolution," ​he argued, current enemies are seen as future friends. We'll consider the ways in which current social movements might avail themselves of the language of the Declaration to build stronger coalitions through non-violence, self-reflection, and mutual respect.

This event is sponsored by the Vermont Humanities Council and the Windham World Affairs Council