Free Speech, Media and the Democratic Idea ft. Ken Burns | The 2026 Theodore H. White Lecture on Press and Politics

Description

Meeting Method:
Hybrid
Event Types:
JFK Jr. Forum
Associated Program:
John F. Kennedy Jr. Forum
Speakers:
Ken Burns
Nancy Gibbs
Co-Sponsors:
Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics and Public Policy

View the livestream

Ken Burns, preeminent documentary filmmaker, will join Shorenstein Center Director Nancy Gibbs for a conversation on the role of media and storytelling in American democracy past and present. As the country grapples with conflict and division, Burns will bring his historical lens to the Forum to consider how we have, over the past 250+ years, framed the concept of America and Americanness.

Featuring:

  • Ken Burns
    Award-Winning Filmmaker
  • Nancy Gibbs (Moderator)
    Director, Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics and Public Policy

Co-sponsor: Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics and Public Policy

Please register with a valid Harvard email address to attend in-person. All JFK Jr. Forums are publicly livestreamed on our YouTube channel.

Accessibility

The IOP encourages persons with disabilities to participate in our programs. If you have questions about accommodations or the physical access provided, please contact 617-495-1360 or iop_info@hks.harvard.edu in advance of the event. The Forum is currently closed to those without a Harvard ID, and RSVPs are required for in-person attendance.