The Big Read 2025: The Roots of Freedom: Tracing the Past, Shaping the Future

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary and Miami’s iconic Freedom Tower marks its centennial, Miami Book Fair – in partnership with the Museum of Art and Design (MOAD) and the Genealogical Society of Greater Miami – invites you to a special panel exploring the powerful intersections of personal history and national identity.

Arrive early to explore the historic building and discover how American history is reflected in its physical architecture and presentation of artifacts, oral histories, and documentary films. Then, join us for a conversation with genealogists who’ll share how tracing their own family roots led to deeper understandings of their heritage, communities, and the broader American experience. Whether you’re just starting your family tree or you’ve been diving into archives for years, this special evening will offer insights, resources, and inspiration to enrich your own genealogical journey and reflect on the stories of the past that continue to shape who we are today. With a special introduction from AMY GALPIN, executive director of MOAD and chief curator of Freedom Tower.

Presented as part of the 2025 NEA Big Read Miami in partnership with the Museum of Art and Design, the Freedom Tower, and the Genealogical Society of Greater Miami.

NEA Big Read is a program of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest.

El proyecto NEA Big Read es una iniciativa del National Endowment for the Arts (el Fondo Nacional para las Artes de Estados Unidos) en cooperación con Arts Midwest.