Life, Liberty, and Happiness: A Panel Discussing the Constitution & Religious Freedom

Join James Madison’s Montpelier and The Valentine Museum as we explore religious freedom, democracy, and the U.S. Constitution. In this second segment of a three part series, Eola Dance (CEO, Montpelier Foundation) will guide a discussion of faith and practice, equal protection under the law, and our shared responsibility in telling “whole  history.” Distinguished panelist Chief Keith Anderson (Nansemond Indian Nation) will illuminate the long journey to religious freedom for Native American Nations and citizens. Joined by Rev. Larry Walker (Montpelier Descendants Committee) we will explore the ways in which faith, perseverance, and spirituality sustained generations of descendants of the enslaved as Piedmont VA “landkin” sharing in connection to this cultural landscape. We welcome American slavery, law, and religious studies scholar Paul Finkelman (American legal historian) who will provide depth of insight into the U.S. Constitution and the protection of religious freedom past and present.

Life, Liberty & Happiness: New Perspectives on Founding Ideas is a collaboration between James Madison’s Montpelier and the Valentine First Freedom Center that explores the evolution and contemporary relevance of America’s founding philosophies and highlights scholars whose work contributes to reinterpreting what “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” means today.

Advance registration is required. Members, First Nation and Descendants discount code available.

Valentine Members who would like to join us for the member exclusive bus trip to Montpelier which includes the panel event plus transportation and lunch, can register at this link: https://thevalentine.org/event/member-day-trip-montpelier/