Immigration was the topic of discussion for the most recent Deliberative Dialogue event. The goal of these dialogues is to respectfully explore the unbiased facts of each presented topic. 

A group of moderators from the department of civic engagement were on hand to help students carry out a discussion about immigration and everything that surrounds it. Moderators encouraged students to explore their personal stake in the situation, including how the topic of immigration may personally affect them.  

The National Issues Forum Institute created Deliberative Dialogues with the focus of building connections and sharing personal experiences based on heavy, complex topics. 

“It’s not about reaching agreement or seeing eye to eye. It is about looking at the costs and consequences of possible solutions to daunting problems, and finding out what we, as a people, will or will not accept as a solution,” the National Issues Forum stated when answering “what is deliberation?” 

The dialogue was composed of an introduction to the topic, ground rules to stay on track, three different perspectives on the topic and a closing reflection to wrap up. The three perspectives consisted of welcoming immigrants, enforcing the law and slowing down to rebuild common bonds. 

The dialogue started slowly as students were hesitant to participate, but over time they became more open. Sub-topics such as diversity, the education system and common racial stereotypes arose in discussions. A group of four students were the most vocal among the 11 in attendance.  

Handout sheets were provided to students with more information on each of the three perspectives, emphasizing the importance of being open to new viewpoints and how we as a society could approach a heavy topic like immigration. A reflection sheet was also provided for students to reflect on what they may have learned and how they feel after the hour and a half open discussion.  

Following the event, students were encouraged to submit topic ideas for future Deliberative Dialogues.