Moments of Connection and Shared Humanity: Historical site visits

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The Reframe Institute launched its first-ever pilot group experience with a small cohort of community members, educators, and leaders committed to exploring history with honesty, curiosity, and intention. Inspired by our theme, “From Natural History to Economic Legacy: Reframing Our Shared Story,” the group traveled to New York City to examine how culture, identity, and historical memory show up in public spaces and everyday environments. 

Although the original plan included a visit to Sleepy Hollow, scheduling changes at Philipsburg Manor opened the door to a richer, more meaningful experience. Rather than pause the journey, we reframed it — deepening our exploration and expanding our lens.

Participants received a guided tour centered on the stories, artifacts, and interpretations that shape public understanding of history. We reflected on what is included, what is missing, and how narratives influence how communities see themselves and one another.
A generous anonymous donor sponsored our full admission, a meaningful gesture of support for this work.

Harlem grounded our group in the heart of Black artistic, political, and cultural legacy. Two key stops guided our reflection:

A moment to honor courage, resistance, and leadership — and to consider how one woman’s clarity shaped generations.

A quiet, powerful pause to acknowledge Malcolm X’s impact and the ongoing relevance of his teachings on justice, identity, and community.

Harlem reminded us that history is not distant — it is lived, remembered, and carried through place.

The entire NYC experience was professionally recorded to document authentic moments of insight, dialogue, and reflection. This footage will support future storytelling, education, and community conversations across The Reframe Institute.

This experience reflects what The Reframe Institute stands for:

• engaging with history honestly,
• honoring the people and stories that shape us,
• understanding what still echoes today, and
• creating space for reflection, conversation, and renewed possibility.

The NYC Pilot Group is the first of many experiences designed to help participants “reframe history” — not only through the places we visit but through the perspectives we bring and the connections we build along the way.