If These Walls Could Talk: What the John Hope Franklin Center Would Say to Students Today

Do you know that brick building on the corner of Erwin and Trent? The one with the glass front? That's the John Hope Franklin Center, and honestly, it's way more than just another building on campus. It has a story, and it's a story that connects directly to you as Duke students.

Let’s look at the name for a second: John Hope Franklin Center. This was a very influential individual. A Duke professor, a brilliant historian, and a real champion for civil rights. His book, From Slavery to Freedom, completely changed how people understood American history. Naming this center after him is a reminder that what you learn here at Duke isn't just about textbooks; it's about understanding the world and making it better.  

What’s interesting about the Franklin Center is that it’s all about bringing different subjects together. Whether you're into history, sociology, literature, or more, this place is designed for people who want to connect the dots. It’s a hub where big ideas about race, equality, and current global news get discussed.   

The Center has this weekly event called "Wednesdays at the Center" where they host talks on all sorts of fascinating topics. Attendees get a complimentary lunch and get to hear from an expert in a multitude of fields. Plus, they have a gallery space on the main floor that features art and photography from different impactful figures.    

For graduate students on campus, they even have a program called the von der Heyden Global Fellowship that supports graduate research while connecting global issues with social justice. Pretty amazing, right?  

The John Hope Franklin Center is a place where you can ask big questions, learn from the past, and connect with people who are passionate about making a difference. It's not just a building; it's a space where you, as students, can be part of important conversations that shape the future. So next time you walk by, remember, it's not just bricks and mortar, it's a place where history meets the present, and where our ideas can take flight.