Symposium to explore democratic governance in Colorado

by

May 5, 2008 | |

Symposium: What Have We Learned About Democratic Governance in Colorado?

A symposium dedicated to the legacy of John Parr

Where: Denver Renaissance, Platte River room
When: Thursday, June 12, 4-6p.m.
Free session

In the last ten years, Colorado has been a hotbed of civic experimentation. In communities like Denver, Lakewood, Fort Collins, Greeley, and Longmont, local governments and other community groups have developed new arenas where citizens can take part in deliberation, decision-making, and problem-solving. 

The late John Parr was an integral figure in this work. John was an innovative leader, organizer, mentor, and advisor for democratic governance in Denver and many other parts of the state.

Please join us on June 12 to celebrate John’s legacy by exploring some of the key lessons, inspiring stories, and challenging questions that are emerging from the evolution of democracy in Colorado. Our lead discussants include:

Paul Alexander, Institute for the Common Good at Regis University

• Steve Burkholder, Colorado’s Future (and former mayor of Lakewood)
• Martin Carcasson, Center for Public Deliberation at Colorado State University
• Matt Leighninger, Deliberative Democracy Consortium
• Amy Mueller, Mayor’s Office, City of Denver
• Derek Okubo, National Civic League
• Carol Scott, Everyday Democracy

The meeting will be one of the kickoff events for Everyday Democracy's "Making Every Voice Matter" national conference, which will take place June 12-14 at the Denver Renaissance. A welcome reception for the conference will begin at 5pm on Thursday evening.