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Observe NextGen Roundtable: Decision 2026

July 8-9, 2026 | Washington, D.C. 

Witness deliberative dialogue and civil discourse in action! 

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Join us to observe the power and promise of deliberative gatherings.

Here at Close Up, we know that the experience of NextGen Roundtable: Decision 2026 will have profound effects on our student participants. But this event can also serve as an inspiring example for observers—of how capable young Americans are of engaging in civil discourse and of the vast potential for fostering deliberative dialogue in communities and on campuses nationwide. 

Whether you’re an educator or simply interested in learning more about deliberative democracy, please consider joining us as an observer at NextGen Roundtable: Decision 2026. 

 

What does the tentative observer schedule include?

JULY 8

JULY 9

Welcome Dinner & Orientation

 

 

 

 

Breakfast

Deliberation #1

Panel #1

Lunch, Debrief & Discussion: Expanding the Reach of Deliberative Dialogue 

Deliberation #2

Panel #2

Networking Reception with Educators  

 

 

Student Registration

Will you be 18 and a first-time voter in 2026? Learn how you can participate! Learn More >

Civil Discourse Lab for Educators

Attend our PD institute to gain the training, skills, and tools to foster civil discourse at school. Learn More >

Support Us

Help make sure students from your community have the chance to attend! Learn More >

Become a Moderator

We’re seeking current university students to help moderate participants’ deliberations in July! Learn More >

NextGen Roundtable: Decision 2026

Participate in a historic deliberation of pressing national issues ahead of the midterm elections.  Learn More >

Media

Interested in covering NextGen Roundtable: Decision 2026? Learn More >