American Democracy Project – University of Northern Iowa

CIVIC DISCOURSE AND OPPOSING VIEWS

Tuesday, October 30, 2007

4-5:30 p.m.

University of Northern Iowa

Schindler Education Center – Room 252

Should Lesbian and Gay Couples be Allowed to Marry?

PANELISTS

              Rev. Maureen Doherty, Rector, St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Waverly

              and Director of Cedar Valley Episcopal Campus Ministries

              Matt Reisetter, Pastors' Resource Council Director, Iowa Family Policy Center.

Format

This event is in two parts.  In the first part, participants are paired up and take turns presenting both sides.  “Yes” and “no” talking points are provided.  In the second part, Rev. Doherty and Mr. Reisetter will present their views and engage in discussion with the audience.  Respect and civility are expected of all participants at this event.

SPONSORS

The American Democracy Project (ADP), University of Northern Iowa

The Leadership Studies Program, University of Northern Iowa

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

Gerri Perreault, Co-Chair, ADP, 273-6898 or YLA@UNI.edu

Kent Sandstrom, Co-Chair, ADP, 273-2769 or Kent.Sandstrom@UNI.edu

                    (For e-mail, put “opposing views” in subject line.)

        -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

WHAT IS THE AMERICAN DEMOCRACY PROJECT (ADP)?

UNI is one of the campuses participating in The American Democracy Project (ADP), a multi-campus initiative of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU).  The goal of this project is to produce graduates who understand and are committed to engaging in meaningful actions as citizens in a democracy.  AASCU began the project out of a concern about decreasing rates of participation in the civic life of America in voting, in advocacy, in local grassroots associations, and in other forms of civic engagement that are necessary for the vitality of our democracy.

WHAT IS THE CIVIC DISCOURSE AND OPPOSING VIEWS SERIES?

The Civic Discourse and Opposing Views series is a project of UNI’s American Democracy Project.  The series is intended to promote responsible public dialogue by citizens and leaders.  The series provides an opportunity to participate in civil and civic discourse on issues of public importance and engage in genuine conversation with people whose views differ from one’s own.  Although some think it is a sign of weakness to listen to the views of those with whom one disagrees, we believe it is a sign of strength and reflects a commitment to democratic processes so vital to the health of our communities and world.  It is our hope that participation in this series will contribute to raising the level of civil civic discourse in our groups and our society.