Night of Ideas!

In 2026, as the United States marks the 250th anniversary of its independence, Night of Ideas Atlanta invites the public to explore the theme Enlightenment Now. This special edition foregrounds the voices of youth and civil society, opening a vibrant dialogue on the contemporary relevance of Enlightenment ideals and the values that have long linked France and the United States: democracy, progress, freedom of expression, culture, education, and the rule of law.

Throughout the evening, discussions will examine how young people and civic actors can actively participate in shaping public policy and imagining more just and sustainable futures. Conversations will address access to education, critical and creative thinking, civic engagement, and the creation of spaces for open expression in the face of misinformation and polarization. The program will also explore how cities—through climate resilience, food democracy, housing innovation, technology, and social justice—can foster inclusive and sustainable urban futures, with a special focus on Atlanta.

Through talks, performances, and cross-disciplinary exchanges, Enlightenment Now! offers a moment to revisit the founding ideals that continue to shape our shared democratic project—and to ask what enlightenment means today, in Atlanta and beyond.

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