​Free Speech, Self Defense and More at the National WWI Museum and Memorial

The National WWI Museum and Memorial and American Public Square at Jewell will host, on Tuesday, March 11, “Speaking Freely.” A panel discussion moderated by Margaret Talev (director of Syracuse University’s Institute for Democracy, Journalism and Citizenship) will explore free speech in America – its evolution, its definition and its impact on politics, education and the daily lives of U.S. residents – more than 100 years after Americans entered WWI to “make the world safe for democracy.” The program is free onsite and online. A reception at the Museum and Memorial at 5:30 p.m. will precede the in-person event at 6 p.m.
 
The latest event in the Pershing Lecture Series is “An Enigma in Red Stripes and Gold Braid” on Tuesday, March 25 at 9:30 p.m. History remembers Erich von Falkenhayn for the “blood mill” of Verdun – despite realizing early on that attrition would be ultimately disastrous. Examine his controversial legacy with Dr. Scott Stephenson. The event is free with RSVP and available in-person and online.
 
In the tradition of British suffragettes practicing jiu-jitsu to protect themselves in their fight for voting rights, participants can learn self-defense in a two-hour hands-on training session. “Empower: Modern Self-Defense” takes place on Saturday, March 22 at 10:30 a.m. The event is free, but registration is required (Ages 12+ only).
 
Those who use ASL (American Sign Language) are invited to explore the Main Gallery with a knowledgeable Museum Guide on a tour translated by an ASL interpreter. The tour takes place on Saturday, March 29. Guests may sign up on the day of the tour at the Ticketing Counter. The tour begins at 2:30 and is complimentary with paid admission.
 
March National WWI Museum and Memorial events

• Saturdays | 11 a.m.: Hands-on History
• Monday, March 10, 2025 | 6:30 p.m.: Member Insider
• Tuesday, March 11, 2025 | 5:30 p.m. Reception, 6 P.M. Program: Speaking Freely
• Thursday, March 20, 2025 | 5:30 p.m.: Modernist Happy Hour
• Saturday, March 22, 2025 | 10:30 a.m.: Empower: Modern Self-Defense
• Tuesday, March 25, 2025 | 6:30 p.m.: Pershing Lecture Series: An Enigma in Red Stripes and Gold Braid
• Saturday, March 29, 2025 | 2:30 p.m.: ASL Guided Tour

 
Designated by Congress as America’s official World War I Museum and Memorial and located in downtown Kansas City, Mo., the National WWI Museum and Memorial inspires thought, dialogue and learning to make the experiences of the Great War era meaningful and relevant for present and future generations. To learn more, visit theworldwar.org.