Inspired by the Science Homecoming project, which encourages scientists to write brief opinion pieces in their hometown newspapers across the country making the case for science's importance to their local community, "Raise Your Voice for the Smithsonian" will empower you to write an opinion piece in support of the Smithsonian and place it in a newspaper!

 

At this workshop, Science Homecoming's co-founder will explain that project's mission and philosophy (which has successfully placed hundreds of pieces across the country) and then share insight on choosing a paper to write for, approaching an editor to pitch an idea, and composing a persuasive opinion piece. Historians Kate Masur and Chandra Manning will share data we have collected about the impact of the Smithsonian on communities far outside the beltway to give you ideas about material you might include. Finally, we will share practical tips and pointers specially prepared for this event by Mission Partners Strategic Communications Firm.

 

If you have been looking for a concrete, actionable way to advocate for independence, credibility, and honesty in public history, this workshop is your chance!

 

Speakers:

 

Jessica Cantlon (Carnegie Mellon University) is co-founder of Science Homecoming. She is an NIH and NSF funded scientist who is enthusiastic about the promise of science and eager to help scientists write about it. 

 

Kate Masur teaches history at Northwestern University and is co-editor of the Journal of the Civil War Era.

 

Mike Larabee is an independent editor with more than 30 years experience in journalism, most recently as op-ed editor, managing opinion editor, and deputy opinion editor at The Washington Post.  

 

Chandra Manning teaches history at Georgetown University and co-founded Citizen Historians for the Smithsonian.

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Register Here.