We inhale Whitman’s verses and are captured by the hypnotic power of democracy. And oh! how we love Walt Whitman’s fabulously open, infinite democratic spirit.

We turn to Alexis de Tocqueville for his stunning insights into American individualism while we love to believe his claims that democracy would create greater equality. We quote wise scribes such as George Orwell on how there may be a latent fascist waiting to emerge in all humans, or Hannah Arendt on how democracies are inherently unstable and susceptible to ruin by aggressive, skilled demagogues. Some of us pick up our pens and do what we can.

Should we in the intellectual classes position our warnings in satire, in jeremiads, in social scientific data, in historical analogy, in philosophical wisdom we glean from so many who have instructed us about the violence and authoritarianism of the 20th century? Or should we just scream after our holiday naps? Jacquie Dorrance, Penny Gunning, Erin Gogolak and Carrie Hulburd co-chaired the memorable evening.A merican democracy is in peril and nearly everyone paying attention is trying to find the best way to say so. Chernow, which further illuminated the remarkable life of Alexander Hamilton. Senator Jon Kyl conducted the traditional fireside chat with Mr. In addition to his remarks, the audience delighted in a performance from the hit Broadway musical – Hamilton – with permission from Lin-Manuel Miranda. Ron Chernow artfully educated and entertained the crowd with his extensive knowledge of Alexander Hamilton and our nation’s founding. SRP and the White House Design Studio magically transformed the ballroom into colonial Philadelphia, with the menu and music of the evening also paying tribute to the historic era. The sold-out evening was attended by 800 guests in support of the O’Connor Institute’s educational programs. Dinner With Hamilton – The Man and The Musical featured acclaimed author and historian Ron Chernow. The Sandra Day O’Connor Institute honored Founding Father Alexander Hamilton at its Annual History Dinner on Novemat The Phoenician. Dionne and Francis Najafi together with Terry and Steve Roman served as Dinner Co-Chairs who helped raise funds benefitting the Institute’s multigenerational education programs. Many generous sponsors helped to underwrite the evening, including Presenting Sponsors Joe Anderson and Mary Dewane, whose Sonoma County wine, Benovia, was served with dinner at the Arizona Biltmore. Eisenhower following his expert presentation. Senator Jon Kyl conducted the Fireside Chat with Mr. A World War II exhibit on display during the reception was provided by the Arizona Military Museum. General Gregory Melikian and Frederick 'Big Cat' Peterson received a standing ovation. The Glenn Miller Orchestra delighted the audience including a military songs medley as veterans in the audience stood. Eisenhower was the distinguished speaker, whose presentation demonstrated his vast knowledge of D-Day and World War II. Over 900 guests attended Dinner With Eisenhower - The War Years at the Institute’s annual History Dinner on Friday, Novebember 19, 2021.

Dr. david blight