Join us for a unique event featuring descendants of people who share a special connection to Fort Snelling. Lynne Jackson will share stories of her great-great-grandparents, Dred and Harriet Scott, whose fight for freedom led our nation closer to civil war. Sharon Harper will speak about her ancestor, Robert Hickman, who escaped slavery during the Civil War and found a new life in Minnesota.

Now 160 years since the controversial Dred Scott ruling, these guest presenters will share stories of strength, courage and perseverance as they recount the experiences of their ancestors and exploring the importance of legacy. Following the presentation, join in a conversation about the meaning of legacy and its importance in the 21st century.

As part of the VocalEssence WITNESS program, this series of dialogues aims to connect history to the present and inspire our community through dialogue to envision and work towards a better tomorrow. VocalEssence WITNESS celebrates the artistic contributions of African-Americans to the fine arts and to our common cultural heritage through concerts, recordings and comprehensive educational programs.

This program is a partnership between VocalEssence and Historic Fort Snelling and is sponsored by the Knight Foundation.

Thank you to our sponsor