On casual observation the eugenics movement promised a scientific, objective method for improving the lives of millions of people. It provided a framework for understanding how our quality of life could be improved while preserving our long established customs and values. Unfortunately the methods, customs, values, and ethics were over looked in terms of the long term consequences that would limit the individual rights and freedoms of certain groups.

On October 20 at 2:00 p.m., Bill Budde will present an overview of the discredited eugenics movement in general and its impact on Vermont life. The most damaging outcome of the Eugenics Survey was passage of legislation the allowed individuals defined as 'defective' to be sterilized against their will. Eugenics continues to be a concern in Vermont as seen in the decision to rename the Dorothy Canfield Book Award based on her perceived support of eugenics through her involvement in the Vermont Committee of Country Life. The program will end with a discussion of whether or not eugenics continues to be an active influence on our way of life through our public policy choices.

The program will be held in the Sandgate meeting room at the Martha Canfield memorial Library, 528 East Arlington Road, Arlington, Vermont. (802)-375-6153. marthacanfieldlibrary.org