Civic Discourse Week to feature speakers A.D. Carson '04 and Nic Stone
In the midst of an increasingly diverse array of perspectives, civic discourse helps demonstrate our shared responsibility to one another, our commitment to our systems and our willingness to choose to elevate the conversation.
Millikin University and the Decatur, Ill., community have teamed up to present Civic Discourse Week, April 9-13, to have authentic conversations about our duties as citizens in relation to America in 2018.
Civic Discourse Week provides something for everyone, from nationally recognized authors and speakers, to community fairs and community discussions. Civic Discourse Week includes the following events.
Monday, April 9
Millikin University welcomes A.D. Carson '04
7 p.m.
Bob & Debi Johnston Banquet Rooms, 3rd Level of the University Commons
A.D. Carson grew up in Decatur and attended Decatur Public Schools. After graduating from Millikin University, he went on to receive his Ph.D. from Clemson University. Carson completed a 34-song album titled "Owning My Masters: The Rhetorics of Rhymes & Revolutions," which served as Carson's doctoral dissertation. Carson uses his artistry to raise political awareness, connecting music and literature in his dynamic approach to teaching. He currently teaches at the University of Virginia, and has been called on as a race relations expert in the wake of the Charlottesville rallies.
Tuesday, April 10
Acclaimed Author Nic Stone
7 p.m.
Shilling Auditorium, Richland Community College
Nic Stone is an acclaimed young adult author from Atlanta, Ga. After graduating from Spelman College, she worked extensively in teen mentoring, and lived in Israel before returning to the U.S. to write full-time. Growing up with a wide range of cultures, religions and backgrounds, Stone strives to bring these diverse voices and stories to her work. Stone boldly tackles American race relations in her stunning New York Times Best Seller debut, "Dear Martin," where she explores a young black man's search for his identity, living in a white world, while trying to live up to his admiration for Dr. King.
Wednesday, April 11
Spoken Word Event
6 p.m.
Decatur Public Library
Thursday, April 12
10th Annual Conversation on Race
6 p.m.
MacArthur High School in Decatur
Civic Discourse Week will feature the 10th annual Conversation on Race on Thursday, April 12, at 6 p.m. at MacArthur High School in Decatur. The event will celebrate a decade of creating space for ongoing and honest dialog about race in the Decatur community.
Friday, April 13
Racial Taboo Interest Meeting
2 p.m.
Decatur Public Library
Celebrating Inclusivity Reception
4 p.m.
Millikin University, University Commons
For more information about Civic Discourse Week, contact Millikin University's Office of Inclusion and Student Engagement at 217.424.6335.