UPCOMING EVENTS

“Long Island’s Legacy of Eugenics”

Mark Torres, Author and Historian

In the early twentieth century, eugenics was at the forefront of scientific discourse in the quest to understand human genetics.  On Long Island and throughout the nation, eugenicists were granted unfettered access to conduct experiments on prisoners, psychiatric patients, Coney Island circus performers, Native American reservations and more, all in an effort to legitimize a false science.  The origins of the eugenics movement can be found within the Eugenics Record Office, an otherwise nondescript two-and-a-half-story administrative building in Cold Spring Harbor, New York, under the direction of Charles Benedict Davenport from 1910-1939.  The work conducted there directly led to the forced sterilization of thousands of American citizens, the passage of anti-immigration laws, and sparked a deadly global movement that directly inspired the murderous Nazi regime to commit heinous acts under the banner of eugenics.  Author Mark Torres explores the local characters, influences, landmarks and ghastly consequences that emanated from this small Long Island facility for decades and spread throughout the world.

We are again partnering with the Jericho Public Library for this hybrid program. Register for the Zoom webinar at: www.JerichoLibrary.org. 

Refreshments and a book signing will follow the program at the library.

(You do not need to register if attending in person.)

The snow date (if needed) is January 26.

Driving Directions: The Jericho Library is at 1 Merry Lane, Jericho 11753, just south of Rt. 25 (Jericho Turnpike).

From the Northern State Parkway, take exit 35 North or from the LIE/Rt. 495, take exit 41 North onto Rts. 106/107.   Stay in the right-hand lane and turn right onto Rt. 25 East.   Go a very short distance and turn right (south) onto Merry Lane.  The Library is on your left; parking is available on both sides of the building or on Merry Lane.

Guests are welcome to attend (no charge), either at the library or virtually on Zoom.