Making Wisconsin a 21st century laboratory of democracy

Moderator: John Nichols
Panelist: Francesca Hong
Panelist: Kristina Shelton

Location: Shannon Hall in Memorial Union, 800 Langdon St.

A century ago, Wisconsin was known as America’s “laboratory of democracy.” The state was a source of innovative ideas that inspired the legislative accomplishments of the Progressive Era and the New Deal. Hong and Shelton, two of the most dynamic and outspoken members of the current legislature, believe it is time for Wisconsin to retake its place as a generator of ideas and social progress. They’ll discuss their ideas — including their sweeping Economic Justice Bill of Rights — with Capital Times associate editor John Nichols.

Tickets: General Admission

Other Sessions

Free speech at UW-Madison: 175 years of sifting and winnowing

Sept. 19, 7:00 p.m.

David Maraniss, Jennifer Mnookin, Paul Soglin, Daniel Tokaji

The University of Wisconsin has been on the bleeding edge of debates about free speech for almost all of its 175 years. Hear an all-star panel including the university’s chancellor and law school dean plus the city’s longtime mayor (and a former campus protester) talk with Pulitzer Prize winner David Maraniss about the past and the future of freedom of expression.

Click to expand+

Living with the news: A conversation with Judy Woodruff and Al Hunt

Sept. 21, 7:00 p.m.

David Maraniss, Al Hunt, Judy Woodruff

2022 marks the 50th anniversary of the passage of Title IX, the landmark federal legislation that (among many other things) paved the way for tremendous growth in women’s athletics at all levels across the country. Hear a top-flight panel of writers, researchers, athletes and sports administrators talk about how that’s come about and what comes next.

Click to expand+

One-on-one with Bernie Sanders

Sept. 22, 7:00 p.m.

John Nichols, Bernie Sanders

Join Cap Times associate editor John Nichols for a fascinating discussion with Bernie Sanders, the iconic Vermont senator whose outspoken leadership on progressive ideals made him a formidable candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2016 and 2020.

Click to expand+