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I write to express appreciation to those Directors who have RSVP'd to attend the Historically Speaking program on February 22nd at Historic St. Peter Claver Church in St. Inigoes. I am happy to report that at this writing, 142 people have registered, among them St. Mary's College of Maryland's President, Dr. Tuajuanda Jordan.
From time to time, we have been reminded, fairly or unfairly, that the Historical Society has not fully lived up to its Mission to research, preserve, and interpret the history of St. Mary's County for all the people in the community. This event can be considered part of an effort to recalibrate that perspective. It isn't the only Historically Speaking event to address the issue of race, by the way. The publication of oral histories on our website from the UCAC, the publication of Fr. Francis Michael Walsh's book, and other programming contribute to that effort. One small fruit from these efforts is an invitation to speak and to exhibit at the Juneteenth celebrations at the UCAC headquarters. An invitation we quickly accepted.
In regard to Historically Speaking series itself, the Center for the Study of Democracy and its Director, Professor Antonio Ugues, Jr, continue to be enthusiastic about the series, sometimes providing facilities and always covering certain costs that would strain our financial resources.
Noting the above, I am sure you agree that Board Member participation in Historical Society events, and especially the forthcoming Historically Speaking, reassures our members, our partners and our community that we take our Mission seriously.
If you intend to come to the February 22nd event but have yet to RSVP, you can do so very easily by clicking on this link.
Thank you for your support and my kindest regards,
Peter LaPorte
Executive Director |