In an age of increasing diversity and widening inequality, this country needs to cultivate a sense of shared destiny and common civic purpose. To explore this idea and offer local perspectives, Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library, and the Aspen Institute Citizenship and American Identity Program are hosting an interactive panel discussion featuring local thought-leaders. The event is based on “What Every American Should Know”. Today, amidst giant demographic and social shifts, the United States needs common knowledge that is diverse and inclusive more than ever.