Ben Rhodes on 15 Speeches That Rewrote the American Identity

Tuesday, December 8, 2026 | 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

$20.00 | Friedman Family Auditorium

Eager to revisit the American narrative after historic midterm elections? Curious to know how oratory shapes the way citizens see themselves?

Planet Word invites you to a special evening with writer, political commentator, and former Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications and Speechwriting under President Barack Obama, Ben Rhodes.

A contributing opinion writer for the New York Times, co-host of Pod Save the World, MSNBC contributor, and author of two New York Times bestsellers, Rhodes brings a seasoned perspective to how public rhetoric defines the nation.

His latest book, All We Say: The Battle for American Identity, delivers a sweeping history of the United States told through 15 speeches that reflect the battle over American identity and the questions, “What does it mean to be American? Who gets to decide?”

This program is presented through the Patty Isacson Sabee Fellowship. Established in 2023, the Fellowship honors Planet Word’s inaugural executive director, who championed Planet Word’s core values to make the museum fun, playful, unexpected, meaningful, motivational, and inclusive. Patty’s dedication to amplifying all voices and empowering visitors to use their words for good guides the selection of each Fellow.

For questions or concerns regarding accessibility needs, please contact [email protected].