At its core Global Citizens Circle is a vehicle for positive social change through its discussions of the most challenging issues of the day. Social transformation and justice are only possible when people of diverse opinions and life experiences are able to understand and respect one another. GCC’s process of bringing people together for respectful and constructive conversations and then encouraging and fostering a continuing dialogue are the only way to achieve social transformation and justice.
Peace and Justice
Broadcast journalist Janet Langhart facilitated conversation with Father Daniel Berrigan, Jesuit priest, author, poet and teacher, about his autobiography, To Dwell in Peace. South African Constitutional Court Justice, Richard Goldstone, spoke with GCC director Bill Batson during a visit to the Court in Johannesburg. |
Transformation in Turbulent Times
Bud Dunfey welcomed Dick Goodwin, speechwriter for JFK and LBJ, who spoke of America’s future after the 1960s. Texas Congressman Mickey Leland and President of the City Council of Bogota, Clara Lopez Obregon, talked about the impact of the “war on drugs.” |
Democracy Big and Small
In 1993, United Nations Secretary General, Boutros Boutros-Ghali, spoke with journalist Charlayne Hunter-Gault about prospects for an emerging world democracy. Jean-Bertrand Aristide, first democratically elected President of Haiti, discussed the challenges of building democracy in his country. |
Celebrating Civil Discourse
During GCC’s 30th anniversary program Kate Roberts, founder of YouthAIDS, interacted with youth participants after a discussion on Global AIDS. Fifteen years later, Opal Tometi, co-founder of Black Lives Matter, spoke truth to power in a discussion about activism that works. |
These are just a few examples of numerous intergenerational Circles held on these and related topics. |
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Students of all ages attend Circles free of charge and have an opportunity to listen, learn and interact with discussion leaders.
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