A political forum discussing the impending war in Iraq will be held from 7 – 9 p.m. today in the 1,000-seat classroom in the Cox Communications Academic Center for Athletes.
Eight speakers will give their positions either for or against the war and the Bush administration’s policies on Iraq, said Irvin Peckham, associate English professor. About half are in support and half are challenging the policy, he said.
Peckham proposed the Senate support the forum at the Feb. 10 meeting.
The Senate is co-sponsoring the forum with the Department of Political Science, the Department of English and the Bienville House.
Karen Adams, political science professor, will be speaking at the forum against the war with Iraq. She said she supports her position because she thinks if the United States attacks Iraq, it would increase the possibility for more terrorist attacks on the United States.
After the speakers present their brief position statements, the audience then will have the opportunity to address the panel or make statements, Peckham said.
“Students are encouraged to attend the forum in order to learn different perspectives, learn more about what is involved in this situation and to encourage them to join the community discussion,” Peckham said.
He thought it would be appropriate for the faculty to sponsor the forum because he said he thinks it is important to consider multiple perspectives of an issue and to establish a frame of reference, he said.