2024 Teachers Conference Presentation Proposal

Conference Theme

"Defending Democracy at Home and Abroad: The Ongoing Legacy of Service in the American Story"

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In honor of America’s 250th birthday, Friends of the National World War II Memorial proudly presents a special summer conference celebrating the men and women who have served this nation in uniform—often while facing barriers of prejudice, exclusion, or injustice.

The 2026 conference theme pays tribute to the resilience, patriotism, and enduring legacy of Americans who have defended our democracy since its founding—especially those whose contributions have too often gone unrecognized.

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A Celebration of Courage, Commitment, and Country

From the Continental Army to the beaches of Normandy, from the Pacific Islands to the Pentagon, Americans of every race, background, and belief have stepped forward to serve.

As the nation commemorates 250 years of democracy, this conference will shine a light on the powerful and inspiring stories of those who fought for a country that did not always fight for them—yet never stopped believing in its promise.

Through immersive learning, dialogue, and exploration, educators will explore how these individuals shaped America’s victories abroad and helped advance the nation’s ongoing pursuit of equality at home.

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Stories to Spotlight:

African Americans – Double Victory, Unbreakable Spirit

• From the Revolutionary War through WWII and beyond, Black Americans have defended liberty while demanding it for themselves.
• Celebrate the legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers, Tuskegee Airmen, and civil rights leaders who wore the uniform with honor.
• Explore the enduring impact of the Double V campaign and the push for desegregation in the military and society.

Japanese Americans – Loyalty in the Face of Injustice

• Honor the courage of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, whose motto “Go for Broke” became a symbol of unshakable patriotism.
• Recognize the strength of those who endured internment yet still volunteered to fight for freedom.
• Reflect on resilience, citizenship, and the power of forgiveness and justice.

Jewish Americans – Against Tyranny, For Justice

• Celebrate Jewish American service members who fought against Hitler’s regime and helped liberate Nazi camps.
• Explore how wartime service inspired decades of advocacy for human rights, remembrance, and Holocaust education.
• Honor the moral clarity and contributions of a community deeply committed to freedom and justice.

Latino and Hispanic Americans – Siempre Adelante

• Trace the proud history of service from the American Revolution to WWII and beyond—Mexican Americans, Puerto Ricans, Cuban Americans, and others.
• Celebrate military achievements, cultural pride, and the rise of postwar veterans’ movements.
• Examine the strength of families and communities shaped by duty and sacrifice.

Native Americans – Warriors for Two Nations

• Honor Native Americans who have served in every major U.S. conflict, often at the highest rates per capita.
• Celebrate the legacy of Navajo Code Talkers and other tribal warriors who defended a country still grappling with its promises.
• Explore themes of sovereignty, honor, and enduring cultural strength.

Women – From Camp Followers to Commanders

• From Revolutionary War nurses to WWII pilots, Rosie the Riveters, and today’s generals, American women have always answered the call.
• Recognize trailblazers who broke barriers and built the arsenal of democracy.
• Explore how WWII opened doors for women in the military, industry, and civic life—and how that legacy continues.

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Presentation Proposal Guidelines

Educators, scholars, and public history practitioners are encouraged to submit proposals that directly align with the conference theme and deepen understanding of how Americans have defended democracy at home and abroad.

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Proposals may include, but are not limited to:

• Innovative lesson plans or curriculum materials highlighting stories of service, democracy, or the fight for equality
• Engaging teaching methodologies that bring underrepresented narratives into the classroom
• Research connecting the American story from the “Spirit of 1776” to the legacy of 1945, emphasizing continuity of service, citizenship, and democratic ideals
• Personal narratives or case studies illuminating the experiences of specific communities across time
• Strategies for teaching about service, sacrifice, patriotism, democracy, or equity in ways that resonate with 21st-century students

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Submission Deadline

Proposals must be submitted by February 6, 2026. Submissions will be reviewed by the conference committee, and accepted presenters will be notified by February 27, 2026.

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