Pin It

The sessions last two-hours and will begin at 9 a.m., 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. in the east classroom of the Botanical Center. Participants in the 6 p.m. session will receive a boxed lunch. All sessions need a minimum of 10 registrants in order to be held.[adsenseyu1]

The deliberations will be led by David Burton, a civic communication specialist with MU Extension headquartered at the Greene County Extension Center. These sessions are being held as part of Greene County Extension’s “Finding Your Civic Voice” deliberation program.

“The immigration topic is a timely topic nationally, but it is also timely here in Greene County with Springfield residents posed to vote on an e-verify measure,” said Burton. “These deliberations also give participants hands-on experience with a research-based technique for discussing community issues.”

Materials from the Kettering Foundation’s National Public Issues Forum will guide the workshops and discussions. Costs of the materials for these deliberations are underwritten by the Southwest Missouri chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists.

“Immigration has always played an important role in America. The costs and benefits of immigration have always been debated,” said Burton. “One of the best ways to discuss and learn more about this controversial topic is through deliberation with others in a civil fashion.”

To enroll in any of the three sessions, contact the Greene County Extension Center at (417) 881-8909 or by email at greeneco@missouri.edu prior to Jan. 25.

“Americans have forgotten how to discuss topics, and develop solutions, without thinking there is a winner and a loser. This program will let participants address this topic and also trains them on how to host civil discussions in their community or neighborhood. It also educates participants about how to conduct a civil discussion,” said Burton.

Pin It

Send To A Friend

Share