At a time when many Americans believe civil discourse has declined in American politics, the Ray Center at Drake University and The Des Moines Register will co-present a panel discussion on the state of civility in politics. Panelists for the free Jan. 13 event will explore what voters can do to demand respect and civility from their candidates and elected officials, and how all Americans can create a political system in which civil debate is the expectation and not the exception. Titled “Election 2016: Will voters choose civility?” the panel will take place from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at The Des Moines Register Community Room, 400 Locust St., Des Moines.

Panelists will include:

• Michael Josephson, founder of CHARACTER COUNTS!
• Kathie Obradovich, political columnist, The Des Moines Register
• Dennis Goldford, professor of political science, Drake University
• Eric Woolson, Republican political strategist
• Jessica Vanden Berg, Democratic political strategist
• Brandi Dye, student, Drake University

Visit this link to RSVP and submit your questions for the panel.

The panel is hosted in conjunction with the Ray Center’s “Show Some Respect” campaign, which promotes respect and civility. The Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, Interfaith Alliance of Iowa, and the Greater Des Moines Partnership are co-presenters of the campaign and the panel discussion.