Featured Events

Generally speaking, opportunity gap refers to inputs (the unequal or inequitable distribution of resources and opportunities), while achievement gap refers to outputs (the unequal or inequitable distribution of educational results and benefits). America prides itself on creating the opportunity for all citizens to “pull themselves up by their bootstraps.” We aspire to have a fair playing field and want every child to have the opportunity to succeed. There are strong indicators that we are not living up to our aspirations. Many communities and individuals are experiencing a tilted playing field. How can we respond?

On Tuesday, September 26th at 10am ET, please join the Alliance for Peacebuilding (AfP) and the Institute for Economics and Peace for a hybrid event following International Day of Peace exploring how to reframe peacebuilding in a way that advances its integration with other sectoral efforts and promotes more effective policies and programs. The event will showcase several local civil society organizations and their innovative approaches to address drivers of violent conflict and build sustainable peace across sectors. A follow-on panel discussion will then surface challenges and opportunities to support integrative efforts, as well as collect and leverage data to tell the story of peacebuilding.
This is a hybrid event. To attend in-person at AfP’s offices (1800 Massachusetts Ave NW, Suite 401, Washington DC 20036), email Nick Zuroski. To attend virtually, click the link below.

Issues of gender identity and gender expression have become increasingly divisive in American culture.
While the trans community feels increasingly targeted by recent legislation in both Kansas and Missouri that aims to restrict their rights and access, others have concerns about the impact gender ideology is having in their communities.
How can we navigate the myriad avenues of this conversation with respect and compassion? Join the Johnson County Library and American Public Square at Jewell for a panel discussion to explore aspects of this complex topic from multiple perspectives.

Join us for our weekly Democracy Happy Hour! Grab a drink and come hear about the latest democracy news, ongoing efforts to fix democracy, and ways you can participate. Each week we cover democracy headlines in the news, a special topic of the week, and then have open discussion on democracy related issues.

How we treat each other is the difference between a great place to live and a bad place to live. We shape our world through relationships. Most people agree we want communities where all people have dignity and respect. Yet respectful interactions are often not what we see modeled in the media and in politics. And far too many people feel disrespected in their lives. What is our role in these dynamics?

Citizen Discourse’s Conversation Collective is a community of folks from around the country — and even the globe!! — who gather for a Citizen Discourse style conversation.
We started these conversations at the very beginning of the pandemic as an opportunity to connect more meaningfully with folks using the magic of zoom. We converted it to a membership about 18 months in to build in some sustainability. If you are interested in carving a little time in your week for introspection, reflection and connection, come check us out. First timers are welcome to join as our guest to see how you like it.
While there are membership levels:
suggested = $18,
if you can swing it = $36
pitch it on $5 level
We hope everyone will contribute at the level that feels right, no one will be turned away for financial reasons.
Any questions at all, email karen@citizendiscourse.org
Thursday at noon EST / 9am PST
Drop in when your schedule permits!