Oregon House Leaders will Discuss Civility Across Partisan Lines Oct. 7

NEWBERG, Ore. – In an era of deep political division, heated rhetoric and rising political violence, George Fox University will host Oregon House Majority Leader Ben Bowman (D-Tigard) and Minority Leader Christine Drazan (R-Canby) for a timely public conversation on the state of civility in politics.

The event will take place on the university’s Newberg campus on Tuesday, Oct. 7, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. in the Hoover Academic Building, Room 105. It is free and open to the public.

The conversation will provide a unique opportunity to hear directly from two of the state’s most influential legislative leaders about the challenges of legislating across the aisle. The discussion will focus on their experiences, whether a more respectful and productive political discourse is possible, and how to find a better path forward for all Oregonians.

Bowman was elected to the legislature in 2022, representing House District 25. He previously served as chair of the Tigard-Tualatin School Board and holds degrees from the University of Oregon and Stanford University. Drazan is an alumna of George Fox University and represents House District 51. She previously served as house republican leader and was the Republican nominee for governor in 2022.

The evening will feature a moderated discussion covering a range of topics related to civility and legislative effectiveness, followed by a dedicated question-and-answer session with the audience. The event has been organized by the George Fox Civility Project, dedicated to promoting civility in our communities, culture and politics.

George Fox University is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as a “Best National University” and by Niche as the #1 Christian College in Oregon. It offers more than 60 academic programs at the undergraduate level, accelerated online degree programs for working adults, and 21 masters and doctoral degrees.

Contact:

Carly Reumann

George Fox University

503-554-2101