Are you interested in discussing thought-provoking public policy issues and foreign affairs in a friendly and engaging atmosphere? If so, then AAUW Manhattan branch’s Great Decisions interest group may provide a perfect platform for you to explore current topics of concern to the public and U.S. policymakers today.
This interest group meets on the second Thursday of the month at 10:00 a.m. at the Meadowlark Hills Retirement Center. Mavis Fletcher, one of the groups founding members in 2002, coordinates the activities of the current branch participants (and some spouses). She is highly regarded as an intelligent, dedicated, and skillful leader.
The Great Decisions Program, published by the Foreign Policy Associations (FPA), as a guide by the group in studying national and international issues facing the U.S. today. Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs with discussion groups located throughout the country (http://www.fpa.org/great_decisions/). FPA publishes Great Decisions briefing books annually that contain eight articles written by experts on current topics with questions that serve as a catalyst for discussion. The group selects one article each month to read and discuss. Some of the 2013 topics were threat assessment, humanitarian intervention, NATO, Egypt, and China’s engagement in Africa. Participants have an opportunity to make their views known on the topics by submitting opinion ballots. FPA sends annually a National Opinion Ballot Report to the White House, the departments of State and Defense, members of Congress, the media, and concerned citizens.
Mavis stated “our AAUW branch members love to talk about interesting topics and ideas! And quite often they come to the discussion group with one opinion on a topic, but will change their opinion after hearing views of fellow members. The format of the meetings hasn’t changed much,” according to Mavis; “we basically follow the well-written format and take turns leading the discussion on suggested questions, thus giving all members an opportunity to participate.” Sometimes the group will discuss critical public policy issues that have come to the forefront or invite outside speakers. For example, Dr. Medhat Morcos, a distinguished K-State professor in engineering, gave such a dynamic presentation on Egypt that it served as the cornerstone for a larger public lecture. “We followed Egypt through its crisis,” Helen Whiteman stated, “and talked about intervention in Iran and Syria.”
Front row L to R: Florence Schwab, Judy Cattell, Mavis Fletcher, and Elsie Hall. Back row: Dick Cattell, Carol Fager, Joan Strickler, and Helen Whiteman.
The Great Decision 2014 topics and meeting dates will include: defense technology (January 9), Israel and the U.S. (February 13), Turkey’s challenges (March 13), terrorism in Africa (April 10), energy independence (May 8), food and climate (June 12), and China’s foreign policy (July 10).
Mavis said “we would like to have 4 to 5 new members join Great Decisions.” This interest group is a wonderful opportunity to participate in engaging conversation, connect with a diverse group, interact with other AAUW members, and stay current on world affairs. Please visit one of the meetings to investigate the many benefits of this engaging interest group . . . it could be a great decision!