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Florida Reflections: Democracy in Florida: A work in Progress

with Dr. Steve Noll

Florida Reflections: Conversations on Florida's Contributions to the American Tale

Florida Reflections: Conversations on Florida's Contributions to the American Tale- As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of independence, this statewide series invites audiences to look beyond familiar narratives and reconsider Florida’s place in the American story. Led by historians, scholars, artists, and cultural practitioners, the programs explore overlooked Revolutionary histories, the development of democracy in Florida, Indigenous knowledge, and the cultural traditions that carry memory across generations. From Florida’s surprising role in the American Revolution to reflections on civic responsibility and cultural expression today, the series connects past and present in thoughtful and compelling ways. Together, these programs encourage reflection on democracy, identity, and participation at a pivotal moment in the nation’s history.

Democracy in Florida: A Work in Progress This program examines the slow growth of democracy in Florida. Starting in Spanish colonial Florida, Dr. Steve Noll looks at how the actions of political leaders and grass-roots activists have worked to increase the ideas and notions of democracy, a continuing process.

Bio: Steve Noll is an instructional professor in the University of Florida’s history department, where received his PhD in 1991. Dr. Noll taught special education in public schools for twenty-eight years before moving to UF in 2004. He has written on general Florida history as well as more specialized subjects ranging from Florida environmental policy, the Cross Florida Barge Canal, and the 1970s disability rights movement. In 2013, the Princeton Review named him one of the 300 best professors in the United States.

Acknowledgement: Florida Reflections was developed by Florida Humanities and is part of By the People: Conversations Beyond 250–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. Funding is provided in part through the Thomas M. & Irene B. Kirbo Charitable Foundation, the Gulf Coast Community Foundation and the Community Foundation for Brevard. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of Florida Humanities or its partners.

Registration is required for this event, and must be completed two hours prior to the start time. A library card and PIN are required for registration. If you do not have a card, click HERE to obtain one.

Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, accommodations for persons with disabilities are available upon request. Please allow 1–2 business days to process. Last-minute requests will be accepted, but may not be possible to fulfill. Please ask for Learning Services at 255-2665 or email JPLPrograms@coj.net.

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