Sex, consent, sexual assault and harassment. Not the easiest topics to discuss even in private conversation, let alone in broader public discourse. We wouldn’t be Civic Series, though, if we didn’t broach the topics that we’re seeing debated – sometimes problematically – in the news, and perhaps also finding difficult to discuss in our own lives. So after a troubling end to 2017, we’re kicking off 2018 by diving into the tough topic of sexual assault.

We’ll be joined by Sarah Beaulieu, the founder of The Uncomfortable Conversation, which grew out of her critically acclaimed TedTalk, and an expert in gender and the media (speaker TBA!). We hope to address questions such as:

– How can we have conversations about this topic – across gender – in a constructive and proactive manner in our communities and our personal lives?

– How is the media transforming our public conversation about these issues? Where and how are they succeeding, failing, or advancing our understanding of these complex issues?

– What are the challenges that journalists face in covering stories of sexual assault and sexual violence? How is the media balancing its responsibilities to survivors, the public, and journalistic integrity?

– What are the challenges of reporting what is “alleged?” And how do we translate what we’re reading into positive actions in our communities and personal relationships.

For January’s Civic Series we hope to scratch the surface in answering these questions. Seats are limited, so sign up ASAP on Eventbrite, and enjoy FREE snacks and beer!

At Civic Series, we help you think for yourself about the most critical issues of our time. We’ll start around 6:15 and then our speakers will give a 30-45 minute overview, followed by extensive Q&A and discussion. Hang out after the event to grab a drink with other attendees and our speakers!