Breakout Sessions

Imagine waking up to a world without laws, regulations, or societal norms. Chaos or utopia? In this thought experiment, you'll explore the fascinating concept of the social contract that underlies our democratic society. Through immersive scenarios and dynamic group activities, you'll grapple with fundamental questions: How do we maintain order without external rules? What happens when individual freedom clashes with community well-being? Get ready for an activity that will challenge your assumptions about freedom, responsibility, and the delicate balance that keeps our society functioning. This session will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the invisible agreements that shape our daily lives and the role each of us plays in upholding the social fabric of democracy.

What does it truly mean to have a voice in our democracy? This session invites you to explore the often-overlooked aspects of civic engagement. Through a unique, hands-on activity, you'll dive into the symbolism of Lady Liberty and what she represents in our democratic society. But as you work to recreate this iconic image, you might find that participation isn't as straightforward as it seems. This exploration will leave you with a deeper understanding of the complexities of civic engagement and inspire you to think creatively about making our democracy more inclusive for all voices.

Embark on a creative journey to visually capture the essence of democracy for the 21st century! In this imaginative session, you'll explore iconic symbols of freedom and self-governance from throughout history. But here's the twist – your challenge is to design a fresh, forward-looking emblem that represents democracy for our rapidly changing world. What will freedom look like in the age of artificial intelligence, climate change, and global connectivity? Let your imagination soar as you craft a symbol that speaks to the hopes, challenges, and values of modern democratic society. Whether you're an artistic genius or just love to doodle, this activity will push you to think deeply about what democracy means to you and how we can visually inspire future generations of citizens.

Step into the shoes of a city council member and tackle real-world local government challenges! In this fast-paced, interactive game, you'll work with your team to solve pressing issues facing your community. From budget crises to royal visits, you'll brainstorm creative solutions and pitch your ideas to expert alums who've walked the halls of city government. Can your team balance practicality and innovation to earn top marks from the judges? Test your civic knowledge in our rapid-fire bonus round and discover the complexities of local decision-making. Whether you dream of running for office or simply want to understand how your city works, City Challenge offers an exciting glimpse into the world of local politics and community problem-solving.

Discover the power of your voice in this exploration of the First Amendment. Step into real-life scenarios that have tested the boundaries of free speech in schools across America. From armbands protesting war to controversial social media posts, you'll dive into landmark court cases that have shaped students' rights. But here's the twist – you get to be the judge! You'll grapple with tough questions: Where's the line between student expression and school safety? How far do your rights extend in the digital age? Get ready to challenge your assumptions, stand up for your beliefs, and learn how to wield the most powerful tool in democracy – your voice!

Step into the shoes of both protesters and politicians in this provocative exploration of dissent in America. You'll journey through pivotal moments in U.S. history, from Vietnam War demonstrations to modern social movements, examining the complex relationship between protest and patriotism. Dive into civil debates about free speech, civil disobedience, and the responsibilities of citizenship. You'll grapple with challenging questions: Can opposing your government be an act of love for your country? Where's the line between peaceful protest and disruptive behavior? Through engaging discussions and historical analysis, you'll gain a nuanced understanding of the vital role that protest plays in shaping our nation. Get ready to challenge your preconceptions and discover how dissent has been a powerful force in making America more just and equitable.

Dive into one of democracy's most challenging dilemmas. This thought-provoking session explores the delicate balance between personal liberty and national security. You'll journey through American history, examining how our rights have expanded and contracted during times of war and crisis. From World War I to the War on Terror, you'll grapple with tough questions about what we're willing to sacrifice for safety. Get ready to challenge your assumptions and develop a nuanced understanding of the trade-offs that shape our democratic society. This eye-opening exploration will leave you pondering the true meaning of freedom in the face of modern threats.

Unleash your inner musician in this inspiring musical journey through democracy. Discover how artists have used their voices to challenge injustice and inspire change throughout history. From the civil rights movement to modern-day activism, you'll explore the powerful role of music in shaping public opinion and driving social progress. Then, it's your turn to shine - craft your own protest song about an issue you're passionate about. Whether you're a seasoned songwriter or a complete novice, this workshop will empower you to express your views and make your voice heard. Get ready to experience firsthand how art and democracy harmonize to create a more just world.

Dive into the heart of a current national debate. This session explores the proposed TikTok ban, offering a fascinating look at how laws are made and debated in our democracy. You'll wrestle with tough questions about national security, free speech, and the power of social media in our lives. By examining this real-world issue, you'll gain insights into the challenges our leaders face when making decisions that affect millions. Get ready to think critically about the delicate balance between security and freedom in our digital age.

Embark on a worldwide journey exploring the complex relationship between women and democracy! In this enlightening session, you'll investigate how citizenship, nationalism, and democratic participation differ for women across diverse nations. Working in groups, you'll research and present findings on women's political engagement in various countries, uncovering unique challenges and triumphs. Explore why women's empowerment can be perceived as a threat, and gain a nuanced understanding of global women's issues. Join us to discover how women have challenged the status quo worldwide and help brainstorm actionable steps to support women's rights and democratic participation across the globe.

Dive into the fascinating world of democratic decision-making in this hands-on, 60-minute session! Explore the complexities of admission as you tackle thought-provoking scenarios: adding a 51st state to the USA, introducing a new sport to your conference, or establishing a new core value for your school. Through an engaging, gamified experience, you'll create rubrics, make tough choices, and deliver compelling mini-presentations to defend your decisions. Join fellow participants in this dynamic workshop that challenges you to think critically about inclusion, representation, and the delicate balance of expanding democratic institutions. Discover firsthand what it takes to "make the cut" in democracy!

Welcome to Havenwood, a town at a crossroads. In this simulation, you'll step into the shoes of citizens grappling with a classic dilemma: jobs versus the environment. A polluting power plant provides vital employment, but at what cost to public health and the local ecosystem? As you dive into this complex scenario, you'll navigate the competing interests of environmentalists, workers, and local officials. Can you find a solution that keeps the lights on without turning off the town's future? Through civil discourse and collaborative problem-solving, you'll experience firsthand the challenges of balancing economic prosperity with environmental stewardship. This activity will leave you with a deeper understanding of the real-world trade-offs that shape our communities and our planet.

Discover how democratic principles shape the world of athletics in ways you've never imagined! From professional leagues to grassroots clubs, explore the surprising intersections of sports and democracy. Dive into the power of player unions, the impact of fan voting, and the influence of athlete representation in global sports governance. Uncover how some iconic sports clubs are owned and operated by their own fans. Whether you're a casual viewer or a die-hard fan, this session will transform your understanding of sports, revealing a playing field where everyone has a voice. Join us to examine how collective decision-making in sports mirrors and sometimes even surpasses democratic practices in the political arena. Get ready to see your favorite games in a whole new light!

Step into the fiery world of America's birth as you relive the passionate debates that shaped our nation! Inspired by the hit musical Hamilton, this session plunges you into the heart of revolutionary-era politics. You'll tackle the same burning questions that Alexander Hamilton, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison grappled with: Should we have a national bank? How do we balance state and federal powers? What's our role on the world stage? As you dive into these historical controversies, you'll discover their surprising relevance to today's political landscape. Get ready to argue, persuade, and compromise like the Founding Fathers as you experience firsthand the messy, thrilling process of democracy in action. Whether you're a history buff or a Hamilton fan, this debate-fueled adventure will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the ideas and conflicts that continue to shape our nation.

Embark on a journey through time and culture as we explore the powerful symbolism of the Iroquois Confederacy's Hiawatha Belt. This session bridges ancient wisdom with modern democracy, challenging you to reimagine unity in our diverse society. You'll discover how Native American concepts of governance influenced the Founding Fathers and continue to offer insights for today's world. Then, unleash your creativity to design a modern Hiawatha Belt that represents the core principles of democracy for our time. How can we visually capture the spirit of "E Pluribus Unum" - out of many, one - in today's multicultural America? Get ready to think deeply about unity, diversity, and the shared values that bind us together as citizens. This unique blend of history, art, and civic engagement will leave you with a fresh perspective on what it means to be part of the great American experiment.

Saddle up for a wild ride through the Lone Star State's political landscape! From its fiercely independent roots to its modern-day complexities, Texas politics is anything but ordinary. In this engaging session, you'll explore how the state's unique history shapes its current political scene. Delve into discussions on Texas-sized issues like energy policy, immigration, and the urban-rural divide. Discover how long-standing traditions interact with rapid demographic shifts, creating a political environment unlike any other. Through lively discussions and thought-provoking analysis, you'll grapple with the challenges facing Texas lawmakers today. How does the state's rich history influence its approach to contemporary issues? Join us to unravel the paradoxes of Texas politics and gain insights into the forces shaping the future of this influential state. Everything's bigger in Texas – including the political stakes!

Step into the streets of 18th-century Paris and uncover the hidden history of America's founding! In this immersive guided tour experience, you'll explore 23 significant Parisian locations that played crucial roles in shaping the United States. From diplomatic negotiations to philosophical discussions, discover how the City of Light became a beacon for American democracy. As you navigate our specially crafted map of Paris, you'll become the expert on a unique historical site, sharing its story with your peers. Engage in lively discussions about the connections between these Parisian landmarks and the birth of a new nation across the Atlantic. By the end of this journey, you'll gain a fresh perspective on the international roots of American independence and develop thought-provoking questions to pose to today's political leaders. Join us for a fascinating exploration of diplomacy, enlightenment thinking, and the global origins of democracy!

Journey through the ages in this philosophical showdown over democracy! From Plato's scathing critique to Popper and Dewey's fervent defense, discover why democracy has been both revered and reviled by history's greatest thinkers. Dive into heated debates, unpack complex arguments, and challenge your own assumptions about democratic governance. You'll explore the fears, hopes, and contradictions that have shaped philosophical thought on democracy for centuries. Join us to weigh the evidence, consider the alternatives, and ultimately decide: Is democracy the best system we've got, or is there room for improvement? Get ready to put your critical thinking skills to the test in this exciting exploration of political philosophy!

Journey through time to explore the fascinating ideas of Polybius, the ancient Greek historian who shaped modern democracy. Dive into the theory of Anacyclosis and uncover the cyclical nature of governments. Can democracies truly stand the test of time? In this thought-provoking session, you'll discover how Polybius influenced the Founding Fathers and our current system of checks and balances. Explore the fall of the Roman Republic and draw parallels to contemporary challenges. Engage in a dynamic workshop to identify potential signs of governmental instability, then craft insightful questions for our town hall, giving voice to your concerns about democracy's future. Join us for a compelling exploration of history, political theory, and civic engagement. Together, we'll tackle one of democracy's most pressing questions: Can we break the cycle of governmental collapse, or is it truly inevitable?

Step into the shoes of America's Founding Fathers and discover the lost art of respectful debate. This fascinating session explores the friendship between Thomas Jefferson and John Adams through their personal letters. Despite being political rivals, these two presidents maintained a deep respect for each other's ideas. You'll uncover their secrets for disagreeing without being disagreeable and learn how their example can help us navigate today's heated political climate. Get ready to explore the power of civil discourse and see how productive disagreement can strengthen our democracy.

Dive into the world of likes, shares, and viral content to explore how the internet is reshaping our democracy. This thought-provoking session tackles the double-edged sword of digital technology in civic life. You'll investigate how social media and online platforms have transformed political debates, election campaigns, and citizen engagement. From the power of online activism to the perils of echo chambers and misinformation, you'll grapple with the complex ways the internet is changing how we participate in democracy. Get ready to challenge your assumptions about digital citizenship and emerge with a deeper understanding of how to navigate our increasingly online world of politics and public discourse. This eye-opening exploration will leave you pondering the future of democracy in the digital age.

Dive into the fast-paced world of modern journalism and uncover the hidden biases shaping our view of the world. In this session, you'll become a media detective, analyzing election coverage from a diverse range of sources. You'll develop critical skills to spot slant, recognize bias, and become a more informed citizen. As you compare local, national, and international news outlets, you'll gain insights into how media shapes public opinion and influences democracy. Get ready to challenge your assumptions, sharpen your critical thinking, and emerge as a savvy navigator of today's complex information landscape.

Dive into the delicate balance between military might and democratic principles! Explore the crucial yet limited role of the U.S. armed forces in preserving our republic. How does a democratic nation maintain a powerful military without risking its own freedoms? Through engaging discussions and interactive scenarios, you'll grapple with the challenges of national defense, civilian control, and constitutional integrity. Discover the invisible lines that separate military action from political power, and debate where those lines should be drawn. Join us to unravel the complexities of keeping a republic safe, both from external threats and internal overreach. Can you navigate the tightrope between security and liberty? Step into the shoes of military leaders and civilian policymakers to find out!

Step into the heart of local politics in this immersive, high-stakes simulation! As a newly elected official, you'll navigate the treacherous waters of a crucial town vote. Will you succumb to the slick promises of lobbyists, be swayed by impassioned grassroots pleas, or stand firm on cold, hard data? Experience firsthand the push and pull of democracy as think tanks, special interests, and community organizers vie for your support. Engage in discussions, backroom negotiations, and face the pressure of making a decision that will impact your entire community. When the final votes are tallied, you'll gain powerful insights into the forces that shape our political landscape. This unique blend of theater and civic education will challenge your convictions, sharpen your critical thinking, and forever change how you view the democratic process. Are you ready to step into the pressure cooker of democracy?

Step into the galactic senate and uncover the hidden forces shaping democracy in this thrilling social deduction game! As members of the Galactic Republic, you'll navigate treacherous political waters where trust is currency and strategy is key. Through fast-paced elections, tense policy decisions, and strategic maneuvering, you'll experience firsthand the complexities of democratic systems. Witness how a coordinated minority can influence an unsuspecting majority, and grapple with fundamental questions about trust, governance, and the balance of power. Whether you're a political enthusiast or new to civic engagement, "Secret Sith" offers a captivating glimpse into the intricacies of political discourse and decision-making. Join us for an immersive adventure that will challenge your assumptions about democracy in action!

Discover the hidden numbers shaping our democracy! In this engaging session, dive into the fascinating world where math meets politics. Through interactive simulations, you'll unravel the mysteries of ranked choice voting and try your hand at drawing voting districts. Explore how these mathematical concepts dramatically impact election results and representation. Whether you're a math enthusiast or just curious about the mechanics of democracy, this session will transform your understanding of the electoral process. Join us to crunch the numbers behind fair representation and gain powerful insights into the future of democratic reform.