Florida Reflections: Conversation s on Florida's Contributions to the American Tale- \;As the U nited States approaches the 250th anniversary of independence\, this state wide series invites audiences to look beyond familiar narratives and recon sider Florida&rsquo\;s place in the American story. Led by historians\, sc holars\, artists\, and cultural practitioners\, the programs explore overl ooked Revolutionary histories\, the development of democracy in Florida\, Indigenous knowledge\, and the cultural traditions that carry memory acros s generations. From Florida&rsquo\;s surprising role in the American Revol ution 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&rsquo\;s history.
\ nMusic\, Memory\, and Seminole Life in Florida Through song and storytelling\, Seminole singer-songwriter Rita Youngman shares m usic rooted in Seminole history\, place\, and lived experience. Her work d raws on stories passed down through generations while also engaging with c ontemporary Native American life in Florida. Performed in community and cu ltural settings\, Youngman&rsquo\;s songwriting reflects deep connections to Florida&rsquo\;s landscapes and the enduring presence of Seminole voice s within them.
\nBio: Rita Youngman is a Seminole T ribe of Florida singer-songwriter and cultural storyteller from Lake Placi d\, Florida. She is the granddaughter of Toby and Rosa Johns from the Brig hton Reservation and a member of the Bird Clan. Her original music draws o n Seminole history\, culture\, and lived experience\, with songs such as & ldquo\;Egmont Key&rdquo\; and &ldquo\;Hush&rdquo\; reflecting tribal histo ry and stories passed down through elders. She has been performing and rec ording original music for over a decade\, sharing her work at festivals\, community events\, and cultural programs across Florida.
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Registration is required for this event\, and must be co mpleted two hours prior to the start time. A library card and PIN are requ ired for registration. If you do not have a card\, click \;HERE \;to ob tain one.
\nPursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act\, accomm odations for persons with disabilities are available upon request. Please allow 1&ndash\;2 business days to process. Last-minute requests will be ac cepted\, but may not be possible to fulfill. Please ask for Learning Servi ces at 255-2665 or email \;JPLPrograms@coj.net.
\nhttps://jaxpublic library.libnet.info/event/16054251 URL;VALUE=URI:https://jaxpubliclibrary.libnet.info/event/16054251 END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR