Author Readings and Lectures

Presentation: Emma Lazarus's The New Colossus

Jewish Heritage Month Program
Thursday, 5/1/2025
6:00 - 7:00
Koret Auditorium
Main Library

100 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
United States

415-557-4400

Emma Lazarus' famous poem is inexorably linked with the Statue of Liberty. Learn the true story of how. Through images, film, and audio clips we explore its relevance to the continuing dialogue about immigration.

“Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse of your teeming shore…” While many people recognize this oft-quoted stanza they may not know its fascinating backstory and its many uses and abuses. “The New Colossus,” the sonnet by the Jewish American poet Emma Lazarus was written in 1883 to raise funds for the construction of a pedestal for “Liberty Enlightening the World”.

As issues of refugees and immigration continue to dominate the news, the poem’s relevance is greater than ever. Join us for a lively, informative, and interactive discussion led by writer, editor and historian Jim Van Buskirk, of the pioneering female poet, her sonnet and its history, legacy, and cultural influence.

Jim Van Buskirk - Website 

Author Readings & Lectures

Engage with your favorite writers and discover your next read.

SWANA Interest

This program honors the diverse cultures, traditions and histories of Southwest Asian and North African heritage.

Spotlight

This program is sponsored by Friends of the San Francisco Public Library.

Attending Programs

All programs are drop-in (no registration necessary) unless otherwise noted. All SFPL locations are wheelchair accessible. For accommodations (such as ASL), call (415) 557-4557 or contact accessibility@sfpl.org. Requesting at least 3 business days in advance will help ensure availability.

This program will be conducted in English unless otherwise noted.

Notice: This event may be filmed or photographed. By participating in this event, you consent to have your likeness used for the Library’s archival purposes and promotional materials. If you do not want to be photographed, please inform a staff person or the photographer. A sticker will be provided to help identify you so that we can avoid capturing your image.

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The views and opinions expressed in programs presented by groups unaffiliated with SFPL do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of SFPL or the City.