Democracy in Dialogue: Public Square Debate
Date: Wednesday, Mar 25, 2026
Start time: 5:30PM
End time: 7:30PM
Location: Rodney's at the Shafer Dining Court Room 227
Audience: The debate is open to all Brightpoint, Reynolds, and VCU students as well as community members from across the Greater Richmond Region.
This Public Square Debate is part of the VA 250 celebration of America in Virginia, and participants are invited to share, listen, and ask questions about a topic connected to civic life and democracy. This will be a Braver Angels style debate, a non-competitive format that allows everyone in the space the opportunity to express themselves freely in a collective search for truth. The goal isn’t to win, but to understand.
The debate's resolution is: 'social media is a threat to democracy.' Refreshments and desserts will be provided.
Mark your calendars and register now for what will be an open and civil discussion on what it means to live in America today!
Sponsor(s): Reynolds Community College, VA 250 Commission, The Baldacci Institute, Brightpoint Community College, The Institute for Humane Studies, and the CD&D Alliance
Event contact: Amanda Wintersieck, idep@vcu.edu