The Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities is on a seven-stop tour, holding forums that take a deep dive into a half century of Louisiana politics.
The events are set in the hometowns of the seven governors – from John McKeithen’s in Columbia, La., and wrapping with Bobby Jindal’s in Baton Rouge.
Thursday’s forum features the Buddy Roemer administration. The state’s 52nd governor was born in Shreveport. LEH content vice president Brian Boyles says these forums provide historical context as Louisianans head to the polls Oct. 24 for the primary election.
“Looking at this living history, and hearing directly from people who experienced some of those initiatives and challenges, gives us a better understanding of what the governor does. Sometimes that gets lost when we focus too much on personalities. There is actually a job description out there,” Boyles said.
Panelists for the Gov. Roemer forum include Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell, former Shreveport Mayor Cedric Glover, former Louisiana House Speaker Jimmy Dimos, and former State Senator Don Kelly. LSU Shreveport historian Dr. Gary Joiner will moderate. He says this discussion provides rich fodder for academics and people interested in state history.
“It’s the next best thing to seeing history being made. What you get to see is recent history being interpreted. History is much like making sausage. Sometimes you don’t want to see how it’s made, but you like it in the end!” Joiner said.
“The Governor’s Project: A Historic Job Description” takes place Thursday, Oct. 1, at 5:30 at the Bossier Parish Community College Performing Arts Theater. It will be followed by the Mike Foster event Oct. 8 at Teche Theater in Franklin. The Kathleen Blanco forum is Oct. 15 at Silman Theater in New Iberia, and the Bobby Jindal forum is Oct. 22 at the Old State Capitol Museum in Baton Rouge.
