A series of free lunch-hour discussions examining the historical context of contemporary topics will be held at Sacramento State throughout the spring semester.

“Historical Perspectives on America in Crisis” is coordinated by Professor Mona Siegel. The series starts with “Is This the Death of Democracy? Populism, Totalitarianism, and Fascism in Historical Perspective.” It will be held from noon to 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 20, in the University Library’s Global Lounge, Room 1000.

The lectures are sponsored by the University’s Department of History, Siegel says, to provide a historically informed discussion of headline-grabbing policy decisions, political practices, and protest movements since the inauguration of President Donald Trump.

“We’re trying to provide historical knowledge to help make sense of current events, and encourage a discussion rooted in facts and precedent,” Siegel says.

Each discussion will include a panel of professors, lecturers, and other experts, followed by a question-and-answer session with the audience.

Two other sessions are scheduled.

“American Immigration and Muslim-Americans in Historical Perspective” will be held from noon 1 p.m. Friday, March 10, in Tahoe Hall 1025. And “Women’s Activism and Reproductive Rights in Historical Perspective” will be held from noon to 1 p.m. Thursday, April 13, in the University Union’s Forest Suite.

For more information, contact Siegel at msiegel@csus.edu or (916) 278-6206. – Craig Koscho