A healthy republic depends on active, engaged citizens who think critically and participate in civic life. At a point in history when citizens have ubiquitous access to information and, presumably, unfettered connection to one another via social media, more and more citizens talk past one another. Rather than striving to understand both sides of an argument and treating those we disagree with in a civil manner, many allow unfettered outrage to rule the day. Rather than cursing this darkness, Colorado Mesa University intends to light a candle in 2019 by continuing its effort to engage students, faculty and staff and the broader community in though-provoking events designed to spur critical thinking and, perhaps, challenge one another to engage with civility on issues big and small.
The CMU Civic Forum is committed to making engaging speakers, topics and institutions available to campus and the community at large on topics including: history, civic engagement, individual freedoms, equality, social justice and other current events. While the Initiative will continue partnering with outside groups, organizations and institutions to bring such events to campus, we will also look inward at the wealth of expertise and knowledge among faculty and staff members who may be interested in participating in some fashion. Whether it’s a lecture on Cicero or a conversation about being nice on Twitter, Colorado Mesa University faculty and staff have tremendous ability to make an impact on this project.