Skip to main content Skip to main navigation Skip to footer content
September 11, 2026

Triton College to Host Lecture Series Exploring the Declaration of Independence

RIVER GROVE, Ill. – In celebration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, Triton College invites the campus community to We Hold These Truths, a four-part lecture series examining the history, ideas and enduring influence of the 1776 U.S. Declaration of Independence.

Presented by scholars from Triton College, University of Chicago, Northwestern University and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, the series will examine the Declaration through a range of historical and contemporary perspectives.

“Whether you’re attending the full series or an individual lecture, We Hold These Truths encourages reflection on the words, ideals, contradictions and continuing legacy of one of the nation’s most consequential documents,” said Daniele Manni, a Triton instructor and event coordinator.

All lectures are free and open to the community:

  • Created Equal: The Premises and Promises of the Declaration of Independence
    with Eric Slauter, University of Chicago, will be held Tuesday, Sept. 22, at 1 p.m. in the Library Commons (A Building). Explore the text of the Declaration of Independence, its origins and the ways it has been interpreted throughout U.S. history.
  • Independence in Illinois Country with Michaela Kleber, Northwestern University, will be held Wednesday, Oct. 14, at 1 p.m. in the Library Commons (A Building). This lecture examines the Native nations of Illinois at the time of the Declaration of Independence, when Illinois was not yet a state of the Union.
  • Republican Virtue and Walmart: The Jeffersonian Republic and Pursuit of Happiness with Anthony Catenazzo, Triton College, will be held Wednesday, Nov. 11, at 1 p.m. in the Library Commons (A Building). This lecture examines the philosophical ideas that inspired the Declaration of Independence and their continuing relevance today.
  • Declaring Freedom: Lessons from Black Freedom Struggle with
    Eddie O’Byrn, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, will be held Thursday, Dec. 3, at 1 p.m. in the Library Commons (A Building).  This presentation explores how social and political movements in the United States have drawn upon the ideals expressed in the Declaration to advocate for social change.

The Triton College Library will feature a special display of books and resources related to the Declaration of Independence, the American founding and the themes explored throughout the series. Community members are encouraged to visit the display and continue to engage with these topics before and after each lecture.

For more information, please contact Dr. Daniele Manni at danielemanni@triton.edu or (708) 456-0300, Ext. 3301.


###

 

Media Contacts:
Melissa Ramirez Cooper | melissacooper@triton.edu | 708-456-0300, Ext. 3496
Maryann Dibari | maryanndibari@triton.edu | 708-456-0300, Ext. 3691

ABOUT TRITON COLLEGE 
Triton College is a public institution of higher education dedicated to student success. Recently recognized by the Aspen Institute as one of the Top 200 community colleges in the nation, Triton offers more than 130 degree and certificate programs that prepare students to pursue meaningful careers, transfer to four-year universities, and thrive in a global economy. Guided by our mission—Valuing the individual, educating and serving the community—Triton serves nearly 17,000 students annually on its 110-acre campus in River Grove, Illinois. Our dedicated faculty and staff provide high-quality, accessible and affordable educational opportunities that empower students and strengthens the communities we serve. Triton College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of The Illinois Community College Board. Illinois is home to 45 colleges in 39 community college districts. Learn more at triton.edu.

Leader College