Ever wonder how the role of the president was decided by our nation's founders? Dive into the fascinating story behind this pivotal decision in this clip of our upcoming Constitution 101 course with Khan Academy launching September 2024. Explore the principles that shaped the presidency, landmark decisions, and how these historic choices impact our lives every day. Learn more

Freedom Fighter Stories

Live from the Museum: African Americans in the Fight for Abolition

Tuesday, February 20 | Noon ET

Run time: 30 minutes

Explore the Center’s compelling exhibit, Civil War and Reconstruction: The Battle for Freedom and Equality, as one of our museum educators leads viewers through the exhibit. Learn how constitutional clashes over slavery set the stage for the Civil War, and how the nation transformed the Constitution after the war during the Reconstruction period. Along the way, you’ll hear the stories of famous African American freedom fighters central to abolition movement and the battle for freedom and equality for all.

Civic Stories: The Little Rock Nine

Friday, February 23 | Noon ET

Run time: 20 minutes

Live ASL Interpretation Available

Students are invited to join us for a celebration of student voices in the Civil Rights Movement. Together we’ll discover the stories of the Little Rock Nine, a group of students who insisted on equality for all, and how their actions shaped our constitutional history. 

Founders' Library: Black Voices of America's Past

Wednesday, February 28 | 1 p.m. ET

Run time: 30 minutes

Join National Constitution Center Chief Content Officer Tom Donnelly for a look at Black voices throughout history. Using selected documents from the Founders’ Library, he will share how these primary sources authored by Black Americans have shaped constitutional history. He will also discuss his career as a historian and law professor, as well as answer questions from participants.

Professional Learning for Educators

The 14th Amendment and the Battle for Freedom and Equality Featuring Valinda Littlefield

Wednesday, February 21 | 6:30–8 p.m. ET

During this session, participants will explore the 14th Amendment and the battles for equality in America. Educators will examine the clauses of the 14th Amendment and the battle over their meaning from Reconstruction to the Supreme Court’s landmark decision on marriage equality in Obergefell v. Hodges. We will also explore America’s first and second civil rights movements, the Constitution and women, and modern interpretations of the 14th Amendment. Professor Valinda Littlefield of the University of South Carolina joins us. 

Expanding Civic Circles

Tuesday, March 12 | 7–8 p.m. ET

The National Constitution Center is excited to be part of Civic Learning Week, a national effort to prioritize civic education in order to sustain and strengthen our constitutional democracy.

Learn about opportunities for expanding your civics circle! During this program, educators will gain insight into building connections with various cultural and civics-based organizations. These connections range from employing resources, participating in professional learning sessions, and joining robust nationwide teacher networks. Hear from teachers who have worked with these organizations as they share the ways their practice has been impacted by using educational materials and participating in various teacher advisory groups. 

Thank you for being part of our community of educators. If you have any questions we’d love to hear from you. Please email the education team at [email protected].

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The National Constitution Center's education team is here to help with any of our online resources. Email [email protected] with questions or comments on how we can help you and your students with your remote learning needs.

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