Becoming Louisiana

A journey into the lives and cultures that shaped our state.

Becoming Louisiana is an ambitious historical exploration tracing the many origins that converged to create the Louisiana we know today and will continue to become. The lecture series is intended to take place over the course of two years, with an exciting lineup of accomplished speakers. This project is a result of the combined efforts of the Friends of the Louisiana State Archives and the Friends of the Old State Capitol.

All lectures will be recorded and posted to the Louisiana Secretary of State Youtube Channel. We recommend giving the page a follow, and selecting the option to be notified when they post.

Check out the calendar below for upcoming lecture dates!

Historical photo

Upcoming Lectures

Jewish Immigration Into Louisiana

September 22, 2026 | 5:30pm
Louisiana State Archives
3851 Essen Ln, Baton Rouge LA

Hosted by Friends of the Old State Capitol & Friends of the Louisiana State Archives

The Friends of the Louisiana State Archives and the Friends of the Old State Capitol are excited to invite you to the next lecture in the Becoming Louisiana series focused on Jewish immigration into Louisiana, given by Mike Rubin.

We hope to see you there! Free admission.

Meet the Speaker Mike Rubin

Mike Rubin is a Baton Rouge attorney who handles appellate cases across the country for the Adams & Reese law firm, but he has an unusual background. He is a nationally known speaker who has given over 500 (yes, 500) major talks across the United States and in England and Canada on a variety of subjects to groups ranging from civic organizations, legal institutions, universities, and Fortune 500 companies.

In addition, for over 40 years, while engaged in the full-time practice of law he taught as an adjunct law professor at the law schools at LSU, Tulane, and Southern, and his numerous legal publications have been cited as authoritative by state and federal courts around the country.

On the side (as if he had time), he and his wife co-author legal thrillers that have gone international and are for sale in Europe in translation. He also has been a radio announcer, a host of his own television show on Louisiana Public Broadcasting, was often seen over the years as an anchor on LPB fundraisers, and at 16 years old started working as professional jazz pianist in the New Orleans French Quarter.

But today he’s here to talk about the history of Jews in Louisiana, a history that involves racial and religious prejudice, anti-immigrant sentiment, and a story of survival.

The Irish

Speaker: Judge James McKay

October 15

Join the Friend's Group Become a Friend

The Friends of the Old State Capitol have worked tirelessly over the years to preserve this National Historic Landmark. Their work led to the museum being placed under the Secretary of State's office, where it underwent a massive restoration.

Today, the Friends of the Old State Capitol provide volunteers and docents to assist the 60,000+ people who visit the building each year.

The Friends contribute their time, talent and treasure to support the Old State Capitol. They have funded major projects such as a multi-language audio tour and funding for traveling exhibits.

Become part of this vibrant group that supports one of the state's most magnificent landmarks!