Seven Ways to Freedom: The McWorters and their 1836 town of New Philadelphia, Illinois

This presentation covers all this while also encouraging the audience to learn their own family history, how it connects with the nation’s freedom narrative, and why this matters today. Abdul's practice is to present the story and then draw the audience into a discussion amongst all present, something more dynamic than a straight Q and A.

This presentation aligns with the Illinois America 250 Commission's theme “We the People.” This theme invites us to explore ideas of who has been included and who has been left out of the nation’s promise, as well as how people from all backgrounds have shaped and reshaped what it means to be part of “the people.” The Illinois America 250 Commission's goals are to uplift local stories, places, and programs; build pride; and showcase how Illinois brings the ideals of the Declaration of Independence to life.

By the People: Conversations Beyond 250 is a series of community-driven programs created by humanities councils in collaboration with local partners. The initiative was developed by the Federation of State Humanities Councils and the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage.