In times of confusion and horror we search for meaning and context. In the wake of the September 11 terrorist attacks, the University College of the Fraser Valley will attempt to provide some perspective by sponsoring forums on terrorism on October 16 (Abbotsford) and October 23 (Chilliwack).

The public is invited to come and find out more about the implications and repercussions of the recent terrorist attacks in the United States. These free community forums will feature presentations by a panel of informed observers, and an open discussion of the many issues related to these events.

Panelists will include both UCFV professors and guest speakers. The forums are part of the President’s Lecture Series, the theme of which for this year is "The World at our Doorstep: Global Issues from a Community Perspective." The series is sponsored by the Leon and Thea Koerner Foundation.

"The terrorist attacks in the U.S. on September 11 were horrific for the victims, for their families and friends, and for everyone who watched and listened from every corner of the globe. They have also set off a chain reaction which has had a profound impact far beyond the immediate loss of lives and the suffering of loved ones," says UCFV Community Relations executive director Bob Warick. "They have created an eruption of questions, issues, emotions, and opinions. Few world events have so quickly raised so many different perspectives on what happened, and why, and what will or might or should happen as a result."

Abbotsford campus forum

The Abbotsford campus forum will be held on Tuesday, October 16, at 7 p.m. in the main lecture theatre (Room B101). The moderator will be former UCFV president and current faculty member Peter Jones.

Panelists will be:

• Ron Dart, Political Science professor and former Middle East coordinator for Amnesty International
• Darryl Plecas, Criminal Justice professor
• Jeremy Spindlove, security expert and co-author of a new book entitled Terrorism Today: The Past, The Present, the Future
• Adnan Habib, lawyer with Baker Newby and legal advisor for the BC Muslim Association
• Laurie Parsons, Women's Resource Society of the Fraser Valley representative, and UCFV student

Chilliwack campus forum

The Chilliwack campus forum will be held on Tuesday, October 23, at 7 p.m. in the theatre (Building D). The moderator will be UCFV Eastern region manager Brad Whittaker

Panelists will be:

Both forums are free to the public and everyone is welcome. Pay parking ($1) is in effect. Plan to arrive early as seating is limited.

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