7:00 pm, Tuesday, February 7, 2023
Umble Center

C. Henry Smith Peace Lecture - "Love of Country Distilled to a Question: When Pacifism Became a Litmus Test for Citizenship" Dr. Duane Stoltzfus

"Love of Country Distilled to a Question: When Pacifism Became a Litmus Test for Citizenship"

In the wake of World War I, the U.S. Bureau of Naturalization inserted a new question into the application for prospective citizens: "If necessary, are you willing to take up arms in defense of this country?" Dozens of conscientious objectors -- including Mennonites with ties to both Goshen and Bluffton University -- soon found their pathway to citizenship blocked because of their steadfast convictions against killing. This illustrated lecture will tell some of their stories, a compelling chapter in the history of conscientious objection. Dr. Duane Stoltzfus, recipient of the peace lectureship, will be joined by several cast members in presenting the illustrated lecture.

Free and open to the public.

Contact: Duane Stoltzfus, email dstoltzfus@goshen.edu