The City of Shreveport has announced “The Threads That Bind Us,” a four-part lecture series that will serve as part of Shreveport America 250, the community’s celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States.

The lecture series is made possible through a Parish America 250 Mini Grant awarded by the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities and the State of Louisiana. Organizers said the program will bring together historians and scholars to examine the people, cultures and events that have shaped the nation, Louisiana and the region.

The lectures will be hosted at educational and cultural institutions across Shreveport and are free and open to the public.

“As we prepare to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, it is important that we take time to reflect on the people, events, and ideas that shaped our nation,” Mayor Tom Arceneaux said. “This lecture series will provide meaningful opportunities for residents to learn, engage, and celebrate the rich history that connects us as Americans and as members of the Shreveport community.”

SPAR Director Shelly Ragle said the series supports the city’s broader America 250 initiative.

“‘The Threads That Bind Us’ is about bringing history to life through the stories that have shaped our nation and our region,” Ragle said. “We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with our local universities, museums, and historians to offer these free educational programs and encourage our community to explore the many perspectives that make up the American story.”

The series will begin with a lecture focused on Juneteenth and continue with presentations examining women’s history, medical innovation and the history of the Adai Caddo Nation.

Lecture Schedule

• “Juneteenth: Freedom and the Continuing Journey,” presented by Dr. Michael Hicks on June 17 at Southern University at Shreveport’s Alphonse Jackson Auditorium. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the lecture begins at 6 p.m.
• “Women’s History and the Shaping of America,” presented by Dr. Cheryl White on June 25 at Louisiana State University Shreveport’s University Center Theatre. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the lecture begins at 6 p.m.
• “Medical History and Innovation in Northwest Louisiana,” presented by Dr. Charles Vincent on June 30 at Louisiana State University Health Shreveport. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the lecture begins at 6 p.m.
• “The Adai Caddo Nation: Past, Present, and Future,” presented by Chief John Mark Davis on July 1 at the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the lecture begins at 6 p.m.

Funding for the 2026 Parish America 250 Mini Grant was provided by the State of Louisiana and is administered by the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities in partnership with the Louisiana Office of the Lieutenant Governor and the America 250 Louisiana State Commission.

“The Threads That Bind Us” is one of several programs planned through Shreveport America 250, a yearlong initiative commemorating the nation’s semiquincentennial through educational programs, community events, historical exhibits, cultural celebrations and civic engagement opportunities.

More information about Shreveport America 250 and upcoming events is available at myspar.org.