Virginia Peninsula Community College on Friday became the first VCCS institution to host a VA250 Public Square debate, which was more a discussion.
For the event, the VA250 initiative collaborated with the College and Braver Angels, an organization focused on reducing political polarization through constructive dialogue and showing people with differing viewpoints should be able to gather for productive discussions. The event was held in the library on VPCC’s Hampton Campus.
The topic was “The American Dream is alive and well.” Seven people spoke, with three agreeing with the statement, two disagreeing and two neutral. Of the two who disagreed, one said it was alive, but “not” well. The other said it wasn’t living up to its promise.
About two dozen students, faculty and staff participated in the two-hour event.
It was the third VA250 Initiative event involving VPCC students, beginning with a debate at William & Mary in February. In October, five students and faculty took part in an event at the Virginia State Capitol.
The series was designed to promote civic engagement, civil discourse, critical thinking, and understanding, rather than competition.
