Professor Nikole Hannah-Jones will deliver the keynote address at Roosevelt University’s 2026 American Dream Reconsidered Conference: 250 Years After the Declaration of Independence—A Report Card, which will take place on October 12-15. The keynote address will be moderated by acclaimed Chicago journalist and commentator Laura S. Washington.
As the United States marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the conference will examine the nation's continuing efforts to fulfill its founding ideals of liberty, equality and democratic participation. Bringing together scholars, journalists, civic leaders and community members, the event will serve as a "report card" on the state of American democracy and the progress made toward realizing the promises articulated in the Declaration.
Nikole Hannah-Jones will headline the conference during the keynote session, "American Freedom in Black and White: Race, Slavery and the Declaration." Through her groundbreaking reporting and scholarship, Hannah-Jones has challenged Americans to reexamine the nation's history and better understand the enduring impact of race, slavery and inequality on contemporary society.
"We are honored to welcome Nikole Hannah-Jones to Roosevelt University for this landmark convening," says conference co-chairs Andrew Trees and Gigi Davis. "Her work challenges us to confront our history honestly while imagining a more equitable future."
Laura S. Washington is an award-winning Chicago journalist, columnist and political analyst known for her reporting and commentary on politics, race and public policy.
Moderated by Washington, the keynote discussion will explore how the ideals of freedom and equality have evolved over the nation's first 250 years and what challenges remain for American democracy moving forward.
The keynote aligns with the conference's central theme of assessing how successfully the United States has lived up to its founding principles while encouraging thoughtful dialogue about the future of civic life and democratic participation.
Beyond the keynote, conference programming will feature a series of panels and events examining critical questions facing the nation today, including:
- Voting Rights: A Long Road Behind and a Long Road Ahead
- Equality: Youth Activism and the Pursuit of Equity and Inclusion
- The Conundrum of the American Presidency
- Virtual Student Panel
- Opening Reception at the Gage Gallery
Together, these sessions will explore themes of voting rights, equality, civic engagement, democratic institutions and social change, inviting participants to reflect on both the achievements and unfinished work of the American democratic experiment.
The American Dream Reconsidered Conference is co-chaired by Andrew Trees and Gigi Davis and is designed to foster meaningful dialogue around the most pressing issues shaping American society today. Conference registration and additional event details will be announced by Roosevelt University in the coming months.
