What is the program about? Conversations on Law & Liberty in Times of Crisis is a new program from the ABA Division for Public Education designed to encourage public discussion of the complex legal and civic issues facing our nation in the wake of September 11. At the heart of the project is the simple idea of convening public conversations organized around topics related to the program theme. What are the program's objectives? Conversations on Law & Liberty in Times of Crisis was developed in response to the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. The attacks and their aftermath have tested our fundamental values. Policy decisions and individual choices are being made that will undoubtedly affect our lives and those of succeeding generations. By considering the role of law and legal issues in our society, Americans can gain perspective on how we might respond to changing conditions and circumstances, appreciate the significance of our liberties, and engage in civil discourse about our nation's future. Who can participate in the program? We encourage Americans from all walks of life to participate openly in informed conversations that advance public dialogue in our law-based democracy. To facilitate conversations among different audiences, we have prepared "how to" information to aid in planning conversations in schools and conversations in communities. The topics and starters presented on this site are most appropriate for high school students and adults. For parents and teachers of young children (preschool and elementary students), we have created a special online resource guide. What are the program's topics? The program is organized around five topics that consider different aspects of American law and liberty from both historical and contemporary perspectives. The topics include: American Identity, Culture, and Constitutional Principles Democracy and Debate Civil Liberties in Times of Crisis Prosecuting Terrorism at Home and Abroad Global Perspectives on American Values What are "conversation starters"? For each topic, we have identified suggested "conversation starters," which are brief, easily read texts or images accompanied by focus questions designed to open discussion about the starter and the topic to which it relates. We have also identified additional resources for each starter that provide more detailed information on the starter and the issues it explores. For more information, see How to Use Conversation Starters. What if I would like to sponsor a conversation? We hope to have provided on this site all the information you will need to sponsor a conversation in your community or school. We would be delighted to hear about your experience, and invite you to complete a brief Conversation Leader's Report, which you can submit electronically. If you would like additional information, please contact us at abapubed@abanet.org or at 312/988-5735. Note: The views expressed here have not been approved by the House of Delegates or the Board of Governors of the American Bar Association, and accordingly, should not be construed as representing the policy of the American Bar Association, nor do they represent the official position or policies of the ABA Standing Committee on Public Education.