As the nation marks its 250th anniversary, Mae Ngai, Clint Smith, Annie Polland, and Vann R. Newkirk II examine the people and movements that expanded the promise of American democracy. The conversation, focusing on immigrants, migrants, Black activists, labor organizers, and community leaders (among others), explores how everyday people helped shape the nation and what their legacy means for America’s future.
Recorded at The Atlantic Festival 2026.
theatlanticfestival.com
The Atlantic Festival brings the brand’s essential journalism to life onstage through dynamic conversations, exclusive screenings, live podcast tapings, performances, and experiences across New York City. Expect rigorous dialogue with influential voices in politics, culture, business, technology, health, media, and the arts, plus opportunities to connect with other curious, thoughtful attendees.
The 2026 lineup includes Pete Buttigieg, Maggie Haberman, Jonathan Swan, Ben McKenzie, Malcolm Gladwell, Lina Khan, Padma Lakshmi, Rahm Emanuel, Whitney Wolfe Herd, Gina Raimondo, Colin Kaepernick, Kara Swisher, David Brooks, Jonathan Haidt, Richard Linklater, Florence Pugh, Zoe Kazan, and many more. Atlantic journalists including Jeffrey Goldberg, Jemele Hill, Vann R. Newkirk II, Sophie Gilbert, Jonathan Lemire, Ashley Parker, and Hanna Rosin will moderate and lead discussions.