On November 3rd, as part of Dr. Beck Taylor's inauguration as the President of Samford University, Jon Meacham will be presenting his "Soul of America" as part of the Rooted and Grounded in Love Event. Although his plan for this lecture is focused more on social injustices, the problem lies within the beliefs and previous engagements of Mr. Meacham. 

Jon Meacham is significantly involved with the Planned Parenthood organization. He has spoken at their fundraising events, his book is used for the Planned Parenthood fundraiser, and overall his beliefs and core values do not align with those of Samford University, as it is a Southern Baptist institution. Mr. Meacham is involved with raising money in support of an organization that does not value life in the same way the Christian faith does. As Samford is the top-ranked Christian University in Alabama, the invitation for Mr. Meacham to speak is not only disappointing, but alarming for the future of Samford. View the links below for more information.

The goal of this petition is to have Jon Meacham removed from speaking during the inauguration week of Dr. Beck Taylor. In addition to signing this petition, you are also encouraged to contact those at Samford University who have the power to stop this from happening, as well as protect to core values and beliefs of Samford University. 

https://www.express news.com/entertainment/arts-culture/article/Historian-Jon-Meacham-in-San- Antonio-sees-echoes-13811598.php Here shows he has a history of speaking at Planned Parenthood fundraiser events. 

https://sanantonioreport.org/organizer-shares-abortion-story-planned-parenthood-fundraiser/ A recount of his October 6, 2021 speech to Planned Parenthood South Texas division is here; note that the theme of his Samford lecture is the same. It is a predominantly recycled lecture.

https://www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-south-texas/events/annual-luncheon/ message-jon-meacham See the video in this link.