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Florida Reflections: with Steve Sibert

What Is It About This Man? The Enduring Relevance of Abraham Lincoln

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.

What Is It About This Man? The Enduring Relevance of Abraham Lincoln Lawyer, elected official, and humanities scholar Steve Seibert discusses the enduring relevance of Abraham Lincoln. Drawing on three of Lincoln’s public speeches, Seibert explores the depth of Lincoln’s thinking and the power of his words, considering how Lincoln articulated core democratic ideals and how those ideas continue to shape American civic life and public discourse today. 

Bio: Steven M. Seibert served as executive director of Florida Humanities from 2017-2020, and previously served on its board, including as chair. Seibert was elected to two terms on the Pinellas County Commission beginning in 1992 and served twice as chair, and he was appointed by Governor Jeb Bush to lead Florida’s Department of Community Affairs from 1999 to 2003. A Florida Supreme Court-certified mediator with a long record of resolving complex public disputes across Florida, he also serves as vice chair of the Pinellas Community Foundation board of governors.

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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