The skills of deliberation are needed now more than ever.
Young Americans are coming of age at a trying time, one that is too often defined by political polarization and a lack of understanding and cooperation across differences. In this landscape, the skills and practices of deliberation are essential, offering a key to understanding policy issues from multiple perspectives, making informed decisions, and acting cooperatively in the best interests of entire communities.
Introducing NextGen Roundtable, Close Up’s series of local and national deliberative events, summits, and trainings bringing a culture of deliberation to schools and communities nationwide.
As evidenced by 2024’s America in One Room: The Youth Vote and 2025’s Dallas Youth Summit, NextGen Roundtable programs have a profound and far-reaching impact, teaching students the skills of deliberation and increasing their sense of efficacy and mutual respect in the process.
