Under the Big Tent Debate coming Tuesday, September 27, at noon on the Glenn Terrell Mall.
Is our justice system just? Recently, the execution of 234 people in Texas was cheered by the audience at a political debate, and Troy Davis was executed in Georgia amidst questions of his guilt. Prisons across the country are filled with inmates convicted of drug crimes. Using the issues of wrongful execution and the incarceration of non-violent offenders, this provocative debate will explore questions of crime and punishment including DNA evidence, systemic racism, the prison industry, and others.
Under the Big Tent is a public debate initiative with three goals: 1) to involve the campus and extended community in civil debate of critical issues; 2) to consider issues on local, regional, national and global levels; and 3) to reclaim the tradition and art of public discourse. Debates are sponsored by the Center for Civic Engagement, Compton Union, and WSU Libraries.Students, faculty, staff, and community members are welcome to attend and encouraged to participate in all Under the Big Tent events. We hope to see you at the debate!