Democracy at Risk is the theme for the two lectures/forums this July. The first is on Wednesday, July 9, with Gerald Friedman speaking on “Rising Economic Inequality in the United States: Causes and Consequences.” Dr. Friedman is a Professor of Economics at the University of Massachusetts. In addition to being a regular correspondent on economic issues on television and other media outlets, Professor Friedman is a consultant to the states of Vermont, Massachusetts and Maryland, where he has assisted in drafting financing plans for single–payer health care systems.

The second forum is on Tuesday, July 29, with Attorney Buz Eisenberg speaking on “A Post-Constitutional Era in the United States: Have we Arrived?” He is a Professor of Law and Government at Greenfield Community College. In addition to handling civil, criminal, and civil rights cases in the region, Eisenberg has represented seven Guantanamo Bay detainees, six of whom have been repatriated to their native countries. His civil rights work has garnered multiple recognitions, including an award from the Massachusetts Citizens Against the Death Penalty and the Massachusetts Bar Association Pro Bono Publico Award among others. He resides in Ashfield.

Both forums begin at 7:00 with time for questions and discussion, as well as a time of refreshments. Donations are welcome but not required.