Hope, Protest, and Power: Student Activism from 1968 to 2026

Join us for an in-person conversation with Harvard College alumnus Michael Ansara ’68, author of The Hard Work of Hope, and Tova Kaplan ’26, co‑founder of Students for Freedom, to explore student activism across generations. Michael will reflect on organizing and protest during his time at Harvard in the late 1960s, while Tova will share what it means to be a student activist on campus today. Together, they will discuss how strategies, stakes, and campus climates have changed—and how to make real space for younger voices in movements for justice.

The discussion will be moderated by Archon Fung, Director, Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation and Winthrop Laflin McCormack Professor of Citizenship and Self-Government, Harvard Kennedy School.

Open to Harvard ID holders; light catering will be provided.

Event Details

This event is open to Harvard ID holders only and registration is required.

The Ash Center encourages individuals with disabilities to participate in its events. Should you wish to inquire about an accommodation, please contact our events team at info@ash.harvard.edu.

Additional questions? Email the Ash Center events team at info@ash.harvard.edu.