Celebrated historian, scholar, activist, author, and Fulbright alumnus, Dr. John Hope Franklin, was the focal point of a virtual panel discussion titled John Hope Franklin: Redefining the American Story. The discussion, which was hosted by the Fulbright Program as a part of their Fulbright 75 Celebration, will be rebroadcasted as part of the Wednesdays at the Center series.

Moderated by African American Studies professor and Fulbright alumna Dr. Kalenda Eaton, the panel explores Franklin's life, including his pivotal work, From Slavery to Freedom (1947), which cemented the integral role of Black Americans in U.S. history. Panelists include historian and son of Franklin, John Whittington Franklin and Fulbright alumna, American Studies professor, and former personal assistant to Franklin, Dr. Nishani Frazier.

As panelists share memories about Franklin's work, impact, and travels abroad, including as a Fulbright Scholar in the United Kingdom, Australia, Venezuela, Zimbabwe, and Brazil, viewers will learn about Franklin’s influence beyond redefining the American story to shaping how America is perceived around the world.

Duke's Babs Wise and Bevin Tighe (Duke Office of University Scholars and Fellows) will introduce the broadcast with an overview of the Fulbright opportunities for Duke students.

Speakers' bios

Fulbright Special Anniversary Website 
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The Wednesdays at the Center series, the John Hope Franklin Center, and the international area study centers in DUCIGS have worked in the past to address issues of racism, inequality, and marginalization both globally and locally.

This year, we will intensify our focus on anti-racism under the rubric: JHF | Global Anti-Racism (histories of action).

If you require closed captioning to access the material in our event, please email Meredith Watkins (mw390@duke.edu).