Ben Rhodes on 15 Speeches That Rewrote the American Identity

Ben Rhodes presents an evening exploring how powerful speeches shape the way Americans understand their national identity. Drawing on his book *All We Say: The Battle for American Identity*, Rhodes examines 15 speeches from U.S. history and the continuing debate over what it means to be American and who has the authority to define that identity.

Rhodes is a writer, political commentator, former Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications and Speechwriting under President Barack Obama, *New York Times* opinion contributor, *Pod Save the World* co-host, MSNBC contributor, and author of two *New York Times* bestsellers. The program is presented through the Patty Isacson Sabee Fellowship, which supports Planet Word’s commitment to amplifying voices and encouraging visitors to use language for positive impact.

When: Tuesday, December 8, 2026

Showtimes: 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: $20.00

Venue: Planet Word Museum, Friedman Family Auditorium

Featured speaker: Ben Rhodes

Program: A discussion based on *All We Say: The Battle for American Identity*, a history of the United States told through 15 speeches that illustrate the country’s ongoing struggle over identity.

Run time: One hour

Accessibility: For accessibility questions or accommodation requests, contact [email protected].