The year is 1878. Less than 20 years after “Jubilee,” some of the most progressive Black minds of the day have convened a fictional gathering to assess emancipation’s aftermath, specifically regarding Reconstruction’s rise and fall. The historical narrative of this “experiment” and ultimate betrayal will serve as the backdrop for this one-act production, as prominent figures from the time take the stage to convey their personal experiences and those of their contemporaries.

This play will shed light on the highs of Reconstruction and dissect the factors that led to its demise. White backlash will be dramatized along with the key Reconstruction era achievers profiled from the stage. Their poignant oratory performance will compel the audience to consider the afterlives of slavery.

“The Rise and Deconstruction of Reconstruction: A One-Act Play” is being held in conjunction with the exhibition “Past is Present: Black Artists Respond to the Complicated Histories of Slavery.” The exhibition will be displayed in the Herron Galleries from Sept. 28, 2022, to Jan. 14, 2023.

Visit HerronGalleries.org for information on what’s on view, upcoming events, gallery hours, and parking.

This event is free and open to the public. The play will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. in Eskenazi Hall’s Basile Auditorium.

Masks are optional on all IU campuses. Go to iu.edu/covid for the most recent COVID-19 updates, policies, and resources.

As an institution of higher education, Indiana University encourages and supports the free and civil exchange of ideas and academic freedom and regularly invites speakers from diverse perspectives to our campuses. Visit freespeech.iu.edu for more information.