Friday Forum is a weekly lecture series, held during the fall and spring semesters, strives to raise awareness about national and international trends and events. For instance, in Fall 2010, the series, “De-/Re-Constructing the American Dream" examined issues such as access to higher education, the housing crisis, immigration, and the state of the American news industry. The Spring 2011 series, “Americans at War -- A Look at the Impacts of U.S. Military Power in the 21st Century” examined issues such as US peacebuilding efforts in Iraq and Afghanistan, the increasing role of female soldiers in the U.S. military, and environmental sustainability initiatives of the U.S. army. Each series attracted over 400 attendees, including a crowd of nearly 100 for peace activist Kathy Kelly in the spring.

Funding

The University YMCA relies on contributions to cover costs associated with this program. Your tax-deductible donation to programs like Friday Forum benefit students and the wider community. You can donate online, in person, or by mail. Checks can be made out to "University YMCA" and sent to 1001 S. Wright St., Champaign, IL 61820.

Our generous sponsors include...

Center for Advanced Study, Center for African Studies, Center for Global Studies, Champaign County ACLU, Channing-Murray Foundation, Counseling Center, Department of Communication, Chapel of St. John the Divine/Episcopal Church and Foundation, First Mennonite Church, Illinois Disciples Foundation, LGBT Resource Center, McKinley Presbyterian Church and Foundation, Program in Arms Control, Disarmament, and International Security, Program in Comparative and World Literature, SORF, Wesley Church and Foundation, and Women and Gender in Global Perspectives Program.

The views expressed by the speakers do not necessarily reflect the views of the University YMCA, co-sponsors, or the Friday Forum committee. A sign language interpreter is available with a 72 hours notice (contact Carol Nunn at 217-337-1500). All forums are radio broadcast at 6:00 p.m. on WEFT 90.1 the Monday following the lecture.