A public libretto reading of a new opera-in-progress, *Contested: The Monument and the Shadow*, by librettist Anita Gonzalez with composer Joel Thompson. Moving between past and present, the opera explores the construction and removal of Confederate monuments in the American South, examining how societies preserve, challenge, and reckon with contested histories. It brings conflicting perspectives into dialogue and invites audiences to consider whose memories are preserved, how historical narratives evolve, and what it means to confront the legacy of the past. Audience members will have the opportunity to respond to the work and provide feedback to the creative team. Come to be a part of the creative process and to get a sneak peak at this new opera in development! The University of Michigan Office of the Vice President Research and the Arts Initiative, Initiative for Democracy & Civic Empowerment, School of Music, Theatre & Dance (SMTD) Researching, Catalyzing, Innovating (RCI) Research Grant program, U. S. at 250 program, and Raoul Wallenberg Institute have all funded *Contested*'s development.