Symposium features discussion about reimagining Michigan

How can Michiganders work together to build stronger communities?

That question was addressed at the second Civil Discourse Symposium, “East and West Together: Intersections of Re-Imagining the Future of Michigan,” November 19 at the Eberhard Center.

Sponsored by the Brooks College of Interdisciplinary Studies, the symposium featured group discussions and dialogue led by four panelists whose work has centered on community building and inclusion.

Central to the symposium was the concept of civil discourse. "Civil discourse is listening and speaking in a way that is respectful of all humans to find common ground between those with opposing views," said Lisa Perhamus, the inaugural Padnos/Sarosik professor of civil discourse.

Panelists represented the east and west side of Michigan. Tawana “Honeycomb” Petty, activist, poet and social justice organizer, and Marisol Teachworth, programming director of the James and Grace Lee Boggs School, are from Detroit. Briana Urena-Ravelo, co-founder of the Grand Rapids chapter of Black Lives Matter, and the Rev. Doug Van Doren, of Plymouth United Church of Christ, are from Grand Rapids.

Petty discussed revitalization efforts in Detroit and some of the problems the city faces. She said that change must come from grassroots efforts, not from politicians and business leaders. Teachworth also called on Detroit residents to "rebuild, redefine and respirit the city."

Urena-Rovelo explained the Grand Rapids chapter of the Black Lives Matter, and stressed the importance of getting “everyday folks” involved in social justice movements. Van Doren talked about his church's history as a socially active congregation and his advocacy to other churches to be more inclusive to the LGBTQ community. 

The next Padnos/Sarosik professor of civil discourse was introduced. Jack Mangala, associate professor of African and African American studies and political science, will teach a new course in the fall 2016 semester, “Civil Discourse-Immigration: Think Global, Act Local," which will focus on the study of immigration and forces behind immigrant movements.

For more information on the Padnos/Sarosik Endowed Professor of Civil Discourse, click here.