Today marks the beginning of the 2016 Democratic National Convention. An estimated 60,000+ delegates, journalists, volunteers, and attendees are forecasted to visit Philadelphia this week. HSP is getting in the spirit with our FREE PoliticalFest exhibit, Latino Politics: Philadelphia and Puerto Rico program, new blog series, and more.

Exhibits

In celebration of the Democratic National Convention, join HSP for PoliticalFest, a one-of-a-kind festival celebrating political history, government and the road to the White House. On display will be HSP's most treasured items, never before displayed at the same time. The FREE exhibit runs 10:00 - 6:00 p.m. through Wednesday, July 27. Click here to learn more.

CBS’ David Spunt visited HSP to learn more about the documents featured in our PoliticalFest exhibit. Click here to view the full clip.

Former Pa. Gov. Ed Rendell also visited HSP to speak with Lee Arnold about our PoliticalFest exhibit. "These are things you will never see anywhere else in the world. They are the first and second drafts of the Constitution, early printings of the Declaration of Independence," Dr. Arnold said. "It is a treat, especially for people who love history." Click here to view the full clip.

Programs

What is the historical context of the current crisis in Puerto Rico, and how might citizens – as well as politicians – address it today?

Join HSP and community partners on Thursday, July 28 at 12:00 p.m. for a FREE panel discussion about Latino political participation at the local, state, and national levels.

The history of the stateside Puerto Rican Diaspora is one marked by struggle. As this Diaspora – as well as others – grapples with what role it can play in helping resolve the current Puerto Rican economic and humanitarian crisis, the panel will offer an historical perspective and stimulate dialogue about ways citizens – as well as politicians – might address the crises today. FREE and open to the public. Register here.

The discussion will be moderated by Rafael Collazo, Political Director of the National Council of La Raza. Panelists include Nilda Ruiz of the National Puerto Rican Agenda, and Johnny Irizarry, Director of La Casa Latina at the University of Pennsylvania. Click here to learn more.

Blogs

Though they no longer take up formal residence in Philadelphia during their administrations, U.S. Presidents have long frequented the city and surrounding environs. HSP's Vincent Fraley traces the steps of previous Democratic presidents during their visits to the area, including Woodrow Wilson and Franklin Delano Roosevelt. 

As Philadelphians brace for the crush of humanity arriving for the Democratic National Convention, commiserate with your counterparts in 1948. That year, the city hosted three conventions - Republicans, Democrats, and Progressives - the only city ever to do so in the same year. HSP's Vincent Fraley explores in HSP's latest Memory Stream,

On our Fondly, PA blog, HSP's Vincent Fraley is also discussing the historical context and impact of the several documents featured in the PoliticalFest exhibit, including the Constitution of the National Woman Suffrage Association, the second manuscript draft of the United States Constitution, the first Newport printing of the Declaration of Independence, and more.