A&M-Victoria Launches Weeklong Civil Discourse Series

The university aims to promote respectful dialogue on divisive topics.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 10:10pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A grid of brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen prints of stacked books in various shades of blue, red, and yellow, conceptually representing the educational materials and resources that will be part of the university's civil discourse initiative.A vibrant pop art interpretation of the books and resources that will be featured in A&M-Victoria's civil discourse series.Victoria Today

Texas A&M University-Victoria is hosting a weeklong series of events focused on civil discourse, with the goal of encouraging respectful and constructive dialogue on complex and divisive topics within the local community.

Why it matters

In an era of increasing political polarization, the university hopes this series will provide a model for how to have meaningful conversations across different viewpoints and backgrounds, fostering greater understanding and connection.

The details

The weeklong series will feature panel discussions, workshops, and interactive activities designed to teach participants effective communication strategies and the importance of active listening. Topics will range from immigration reform to climate change, with the aim of bringing together diverse perspectives in a safe and inclusive environment.

  • The civil discourse series will run from April 14-18, 2026.

The players

Texas A&M University-Victoria

A public university located in Victoria, Texas that is part of the Texas A&M University System.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Our goal is to model how people with differing views can engage in productive dialogue and find common ground, even on the most contentious issues.”

— Dr. Amber Perez, Director of the Center for Civil Discourse at A&M-Victoria

What’s next

Following the weeklong series, the university plans to publish a report summarizing key insights and lessons learned, with the hope of inspiring similar initiatives at other campuses.

The takeaway

In an era of deep political divisions, A&M-Victoria's civil discourse series represents an important effort to bring people together, foster mutual understanding, and demonstrate the power of respectful dialogue to address complex societal challenges.