All are welcome at a very exciting public debate event taking place on campus — it’s a great opportunity for community engagement, professional development and networking.
A VA250 Public Square Debate: Is Social Media a Threat to Democracy?
Wednesday, March 11
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
CRUC Chandler Ballroom
Reception to follow
Event FAQ:
What is the Public Square Debate initiative?
The Public Square Debate initiative brings together students from local high schools, 2-year (Germanna) and 4-year (UMW) colleges, and members of the broader community for a respectful exchange of ideas on timely civic questions. Public Square debates help participants explore what it means to live in a democracy — and what it takes to strengthen one. The Public Square Debate initiative is a partnership among VA250, the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV), the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), Braver Angels and the American Council of Trustees and Alumni (ACTA), which houses the College Debates & Discourse Alliance.
What is the Braver Angels debate format?
Braver Angels debates are non-competitive and allow everyone in the room to participate. There is no distinction between the speakers and the audience. The debates are run by a trained chair using a light parliamentary format that allows for everyone to have a chance to speak. The UMW/GCC debate will be chaired by an experienced chair from the College Debates and Discourse Alliance.
What will the debate be about?
The topic that will be debated is whether social media a threat to democracy.
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