Most folks agree – American politics are hyper-partisan and toxic.
We’re all affected by divisions that hinder progress on urgent issues we care about. But what should we do to get the political system we want? How can we revive our ability to work together? And what are we willing to give up in order to do so?
Citizens4Community (C4C) is partnering with Oregon nonprofit SAGE to host a cross-partisan workshop exploring these important questions. Community members of all political stripes are highly encouraged to attend!
The event will introduce attendees to civil discourse best practices while providing space to thoughtfully debate the tradeoffs inherent in different policy positions.
Using a discussion guide developed by the National Issues Forums (NIF), we’ll practice deliberating difficult problems for which there are no perfect solutions, such as:
Should we require more accurate, respectful discussion in the media and online, or would that stifle free speech?
Should we reform politics and government to encourage compromise, or will that mean giving up on the changes we really want?
Should local communities set policies in areas like health care and the environment, or would that risk the progress we’ve made and make further progress nearly impossible?
Each option offers advantages and risks, and each reflects different ways of understanding what matters most to us. Our hope is that participants leave the workshop with new skills, new connections, and a greater appreciation of how our values show up in political decision making.
This event is co-facilitated by the nonprofit SAGE through its Citizen Project, which works to inspire and support Oregonians to work across differences to solve public problems. SAGE is a nonpartisan organization that inspires people over fifty to give forward so that future generations can thrive, while also supporting intergenerational initiatives and conversations.
THE DETAILS:
What: Let's Fix Politics: A Cross-Partisan Workshop with SAGE
Complimentary light refreshments will be provided.
When: Wednesday, April 17th | 5:30-7:00 PM
Where: Sisters Community Fire Hall | 301 S Elm St, Sisters, OR 97759
Who: Open to the public.
How much: All C4C events are free to attendees, but they do cost money to plan and host. Donations are greatly appreciated and will be accepted at the door or online.
Accessibility:
A caregiver reimbursement stipend is available for parents and caregivers in attendance.
Interpretation services are available upon request. Please email director@citizens4community.com at least one week before the event to request.
Need a ride to the event? Email us and we’ll help you find one.
Please contact Kellen Klein, C4C Executive Director, with any questions – director@citizens4community.com.
