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Wolf Discussion Engagement Network (Wolf D.E.N)

Dining with Democracy

Visit the Dining with Democracy event page for the latest news.

Dining with Democracy is a free, public event that invites people from different backgrounds and perspectives to come together and engage in rich discussions over a meal. During the event, participants partake in facilitated activities that allow them to join in open conversation and learn from one another about contemporary issues facing the American public.

  • Dining with Democracy was inspired by two North Carolina educators.
  • The College of Education hosted its first version, Dessert with Democracy, in 2019.
  • Our event was rebranded as Dining with Democracy in 2020 and has grown ever since, with events happening yearly, often in alignment with election season.
  • Dining with Democracy is now hosted in partnership with Student Leadership and Engagement and Pack the Polls. 

Dining with Democracy brings together our community and showcases how we can engage in productive conversations across differences. Over 800 participants have attended Dining with Democracy events since its inception in 2019, and some have gone on to hold Dining with Democracy-inspired events in their own educational spaces. To see past issues or gain inspiration for you own event, visit the Resources for Teachers tab. These free resources include discussion activities and student handouts that can be used at these events or in the classroom.