In this episode of Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge's George Washington Slept Here, we're thrilled to introduce distinguished speaker, scholar, and friend Dr. Joe Fornieri. Joe discusses his inspiration behind the creation of the RIT Center for Statesmanship, Law, and Liberty, his early influences, his love of music, and his engagement in Freedoms Foundation's graduate programs. He shares his expertise on Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, their mindsets, their influences, and how they traversed the abolition of slavery during the Civil War.

Quotes

“For this diversity to be productive, which I believe it is, I’m a champion of diversity, it also presumes a unity. And our national motto, e pluribus unum is worth preserving. -Joe Fornieri

“The unity does not abolish the pluralism, but the pluralism exists within the context of the unity. And I would say that unity is our core principle.” -Joe Fornieri

“Diversity occurs within the context of our common humanity and the unalienable rights that we share.” -Joe Fornieri

Featured Guest
Joe Fornieri
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-fornieri-536b2489/

Chapters:
00:07 - Introduction
04:35 - Becoming a Philosophy Professor and Writer
06:02 - Student Connections and Administration Bonds
10:50 - Exploring Freedom of Expression: Limits and Liberties
12:08 - Nadine Strossen: A Voice for Freedom and Principle
14:27 - Navigating Statesmanship, Law, and Liberty
20:10 - Peoria Address: Lincoln's Critique of Slavery
28:34 - Prudent Statesmanship vs. Pragmatism: Contrasting Lincoln
46:39 - Resilience Amidst Adversity: Douglas' Enduring Legacy
49:43 - American Polarization and the Need for Civic Knowledge
51:42 - Reviving Balanced Patriotism and Embracing Diversity
56:17 - Harmony Amidst Differences: Diversity and Shared Rights
01:02:47 - Lessons for Youth from Lincoln and Douglas
01:03:53 - Conclusion