Oakland University

09/26/2022 | News release | Archived content

OU event to highlight Roe reversal, promote civility in public discourse

On Tuesday, Oct. 11 from 7-8:30 p.m., Oakland University's Center for Civic Engagement will host a virtual event titled "After Roe: The Constitution, Rights, Policy and Politics."

The event will foster respectful dialogue on a polarizing topic that has drawn renewed interest in the wake of a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade, the landmark 1973 ruling that recognized a constitutional right to abortion.

Jill Filipovic

The discussion also takes place ahead of a November ballot proposal that will ask Michigan voters whether to amend the state constitution and enshrine abortion as a state right.

"Our goal is not to change anyone's mind, but rather to supply information," said David Dulio, professor of political science and director of the Center for Civic Engagement. "This is also a way to help improve discourse, on two fronts. First, we know that when people who disagree know and understand why someone else believes what they do, they are more likely to respect and tolerate that opinion. Second, with the participants we have invited, this will be a model of civil behavior and tone, even on this most-contentious issue."

Alexandra DeSanctis

The event will feature two women with extensive experience writing and speaking about hot-button issues, including abortion rights.

Jill Filipovic is a CNN columnist, former contributing opinion writer to The New York Times, former columnist for The Guardian and author of "The H-Spot: The Feminist Pursuit of Happiness."

Alexandra DeSanctis is a staff writer for National Review, visiting fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center and co-author of "Tearing Us Apart: How Abortion Harms Everything and Solves Nothing."

These nationally renowned speakers will engage in a "Lincoln-Douglas debate," a format that allows two speakers with differing views on a topic point and counterpoint opportunities with an emphasis on logic, ethical values and philosophy.

The event will take place via Zoom. Those planning to attend are asked to register here.