URBANA, IL – The Institute of Government and Public Affairs (IGPA) is pleased to announce its collaboration with NPR Illinois, Columbia College Chicago, the Chicago Sun-Times and the University of Illinois Springfield Center for State Policy and Leadership to launch a unique event series titled, ” Undebates: Engaging Civil Discussions on Hot Political Topics.” The three-part series, designed to foster rational conversations on critical issues in this election season, will take place across three cities in Illinois during the 2024 election season, bringing together journalists, scholars and community members to discuss key topics affecting the presidential election. This initiative reflects IGPA’s commitment to promoting informed and civil discourse in an increasingly polarized political climate.
Each event in the series will consist of two key sessions: small group discussions and a main panel. A select group of attendees will participate in intimate discussions an hour before the main event. These discussions will be facilitated by the event’s moderator and will include perspectives from both sides of the political aisle. The main event will feature a panel of experts, including scholars, practitioners, and journalists, moderated by an experienced local journalist.
“The Undebates aim to provide a space for meaningful dialogue and deeper understanding of differing viewpoints. It’s our goal to explore each designated topic in depth, offering diverse perspectives and encouraging audience interaction,” said Benjamin Superfine, senior director of IGPA.
All events are free and open to the public. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with the experts. Complimentary refreshments will be provided.
Event Schedule
Event 1 – Urbana: Foreign Policy
Date: Wednesday, September 11
Time: Small Group Discussion: 5:15 PM CT | Panel: 6:00 – 7:30 PM CT
Venue: Technology Room @ iHotel, 1900 S 1st St, Champaign, IL 61820
Speakers:
Moderator: Brian Mackey, Host of The 21st, Illinois Public Radio
Event 2 – Springfield: Reproductive Health
Date: Tuesday, September 17
Time: Small Group Discussion: 5:15 PM CT | Panel: 6:00 – 7:30 PM CT
Venue: Center Ballroom, UIS Student Union, Springfield, IL
Speakers:
Moderator: Sean Crawford, NPR Illinois
Event 3 – Chicago: Immigration
Date: Thursday, October 3
Time: Small Group Discussion: 5:30 PM CT | Panel: 6:00 – 7:30 PM CT
Venue: Columbia College – Film Row Cinema, 8th floor, 1104 S. Wabash, Chicago, IL
Speakers:
Moderator: Sharon Bloyd-Peshkin, Columbia College Chicago
Each venue has been selected for its accessibility, and detailed parking and transit instructions are provided to ensure attendees can easily reach the events. For further information or specific queries, please contact Alyssa Cooper at acoope7@illinois.edu.
The Institute of Government and Public Affairs (IGPA) at the University of Illinois is dedicated to improving public policies and government performance through research, education, and outreach. IGPA brings together experts from diverse fields to address complex societal challenges.
For more information about the Undebates series, please visit IGPA’s website at https://igpa.uillinois.edu/undebates.
