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MOMENTUM
A Web Letter from the Office of the Provost - February 2020
Democracy, Civility and Freedom of Expression events coming in the spring

By Mary Jane Chew

Diversity and Inclusion

Religion panel next up for Democracy, Civility and Freedom of Expression; Gatherings continue

Free tickets are now available at Purdue box offices for the next panel event in the Democracy, Civility and Freedom of Expression series hosted by the Division of Diversity and Inclusion.

Religion, Polarization, and the Public Space – a panel discussion will take place from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m., Feb. 19 in Loeb Playhouse. The event is free but tickets are required.

Panelists are:

  • Arun Gandhi – President of the Gandhi Worldwide Education Institute and grandson of Mahatma Gandhi.
  • Sarah Hurwitz – American speechwriter who served in the Obama administration and author of “Here All Along: A Reintroduction to Judaism.”
  • Ron Reagan – Contributor to MSNBC, former radio host and commentator who identifies as an atheist; son of late President Ronald Reagan.
  • Reza Aslan – Iranian-American scholar of religious studies, writer and television host
  • Naomi Tutu – Reverend, activist and daughter of Archbishop Desmond Tutu
  • Amy Goodman – (Moderator) Host and executive producer of Democracy Now!

Get tickets here.

You’re invited

Small (10 person) “Democracy” gatherings are underway across campus and will continue through the end of March.  Students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members are invited to attend the free breakfast, lunch, dinner or coffee gatherings to discuss topics such as:

  • How shall we react to rising divisiveness in civil society?
  • What do we really owe to each other?
  • Why is freedom of expression worth protecting?
  • When do incidents of anti-Semitism, racism, or Islamophobia necessitate collective response?
  • Who are our role models for deeply listening to those with whom we may disagree?

Combining elements from a variety of models such as Jeffersonian Dinners, the Circle Way, and the National Conversation Project, these innovative gatherings will follow a gentle structure meant to ensure that all participants are able to hear and be heard. Unlike debate or deliberative discussion, the point is not to reach consensus on any issue, but rather to experience dialogue together—to practice speaking with intentionality and listening with curiosity. 

Prospective participants may join by providing their availability for the free events, which will be repeated throughout the semester. Once matched with a specific gathering, guests will receive an email notification confirming the date, time and location of their event.

More information and gathering registration here.





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