Please join Discovering Amistad and Connecticut’s Old State House for a powerful evening of reflection and celebration.
In honor of AMERICA 250 Connecticut, we invite you to commemorate the life and enduring legacy of an "unsung" American hero: James Mars.
When: Friday, May 1, 2026
Time: 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Where: Connecticut's Old State House
800 Main Street, Hartford, CT
Registration Information
Suggested Donation: $10
Born in 1790, James Mars lived the paradox of American freedom—sold as a slave in a state that claimed to be "The Land of Steady Habits". Through his own words and the accounts of his descendants, we will explore the narrative of a man who defined the struggle for true liberty.
Keynote address by James Mars Descendent Rev. Dr. Shelley D. Best
Rev. Dr. Best is the founder of Creative Disruptor® and the author of Creative Disruption: How Artists and Innovators Build Influence, Drive Change, and Shape the Future. A Yale Divinity School–trained minister, visual artist, and social innovator, she is known for her groundbreaking work at the intersection of narrative, creativity, and leadership.
As CEO of TubmanWalker, she has led transformative initiatives in philanthropy and community innovation, raising over $25 million to support artists and changemakers while building models like The 224 EcoSpace, a living creative laboratory for new ideas and ventures.
Dr. Best’s work centers on the power of narrative as a force for personal agency and systemic change. Drawing from history, spirituality, and lived experience, she helps leaders and institutions reimagine the stories they tell, the futures they design, and the impact they are called to create.
Today, she invites audiences into a deeper reflection, not just how we lead, but how the stories we carry shape the world we are building together.
Special Performances by
Nia Arts – Award winning cultural arts company performing traditional African dance and drumming
The Walkers – Gospel singing group
Andre Keitt – Nationally recognized storyteller and griot to perform reenactment
Parking Information:
We recommend parking in the State House Square parking garage, located at 75 Market Street and just steps away from Connecticut’s Old State House. Parking is capped at $10 with a validated ticket. NOTE: Please look for signs indicating what time the garage closes.
Please present your parking ticket to the museum’s Visitor Services desk for validation.
Free on-street parking is available after 6:00pm and on weekends. Follow posted parking instructions.
For additional information, please contact info@discoveringamistad.org.
Presented by
With support from
