This Is (Not) a Debate

This Is (Not) a Debate

University of Virginia

After the 2022 shooting at University of Virginia, student Jack Siegel felt an urgent need for more meaningful conversations on campus. That’s why he founded the Civil Discourse Initiative (CDI), a student-led group that fosters open, respectful discussions on divisive issues. But creating space for this isn’t always easy. From navigating tough conversations on abortion, immigration, and the election, to challenging misconceptions about Gen Z’s willingness to engage, Jack is proving that young people aren’t shying away from difficult conversations—they’re leading them.