Into the Bright Sunshine

Join us to hear author Samuel Freedman speak about his new book “Into the Bright Sunshine: Young Hubert Humphrey and the Fight for Civil Rights.” Freedman explores the journey of Humphrey’s life from a remote, all-white hamlet in South Dakota to the mayoralty of Minneapolis as he tackles its notorious racism and anti-Semitism to his role as a national champion of multiracial democracy.

We will hear how Freedman used the expansive resources of the Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives as he conducted research for the book. An audience Q&A will follow his presentation. A reception and book signing — and an opportunity to view the new exhibit “Symbolic Significance: Tracing the History of Jewish High Holidays and the First Day of School” — will follow.

During the event, attendees will have the opportunity to acquire copies of “Into the Bright Sunshine” from the University of Minnesota Bookstores table on the spot, or purchase it beforehand. Additionally, Sam Freedman will hold a book signing during the reception, creating a cherished opportunity for personal connections to this momentous occasion.

About Sam Freedman

Samuel G. Freedman is an award-winning author, journalist, and educator. He has been a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award and has won the National Jewish Book Award and the New York Public Library’s Helen Bernstein Award. His columns for the New York Times about education and religion have received national prizes. He is a professor at Columbia University, and has been named the nation’s Outstanding Journalism Educator by the Society of Professional Journalists.

Event details

What: Into the Bright Sunshine, with author Samuel Freedman
When: Monday, Nov. 6, 2023 | Program begins at 6:30 p.m | Reception with book signing and exhibit viewing at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Elmer L. Andersen Library | Parking and directions