The 21st century has ushered in an era of rapid and at times incomprehensible change. Citizens in communities great and small are living in a near constant state of social, political, economic and cultural upheaval. Simply put, people no longer feel safe and secure in their lives. From crime on the streets of Chicago to human rights violations in Syria and unending war in Afghanistan, people are increasingly convinced that the world is falling apart. The reality is that in many ways, the world is healthier, more prosperous and more peaceful than at any time in history. Thus we face the paradox of a world that is both turbulent and tranquil at the same time. How do we calm the unrest, spread prosperity and show that the world can be, and in fact is, a better place to live?
Please join us for Peace in the Age of Uncertainty, and hear from a panel of experts on how urban violence, domestically and abroad, is impacting our communities. The event is the first of a three-part series on issues of peace and conflict, Pathways to Peace. 

Rotary International and The University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy and International House have a shared interest in introducing thought-provoking ideas for solving problems and promoting new strategies to transform and improve the social good. The new Pearson Institute for the Study and Resolution of Global Conflicts at Harris identifies new, innovative strategies based on data-driven analysis to transform how we understand and approach global conflicts. Through a dedicated speaker series, Rotary International and Harris School of Public Policy foster a unique collaboration that advances their joint ideals and commitment to excellence. During this event, global leaders will share their stories, expertise, and advice and expose new perspectives on enduring issues. Presentations will be followed by a moderated discussion and Q&A.

Speakers will include:

Christopher Blattman, Ramalee E. Pearson Professor of Global Conflict Studies, University of Chicago and The Pearson Institute

Anne Richard, AM’84, Former Assistant Secretary: Population, Refugees and Migration, U.S. Department of State

Gary Slutkin, Founder and CEO, Cure Violence

Brooke Stearns Lawson, Senior Conflict Advisor: Organized Crime, USAID Africa Bureau

Moderator: Jerome McDonnell, Host: Worldview, WBEZ

Doors open at 5:00PM

This event is free and open to the public.

Co-sponsored by Global Voices Lecture Series, Harris School of Public Policy, and Rotary International.