On Principle
"On Principle is simply democracy in action: citizens talking with, listening to, and learning from each other. Our statewide culture will be enriched as people practice citizenship actively and with open minds, neighbor to neighbor." OCH Public Program Director Carol E. Hickman
About On Principle
Read the On Principle issue of Oregon Humanities online or contact us to request a copy.
The Oregon Council for the Humanities (OCH) created an ambitious public radio series in 2005 called On Principle: Thoughts on American Democracy. The program invited Oregonians to think about and discuss five core principles of American democracy: individual freedom, equality, economic opportunity, civic engagement, and justice. On Principle explored how these founding principles continue to bind us together as a nation in the twenty-first century. Listen to the series or read transcripts at right.
In 2006-07, OCH is extending the dialogue begun on the radio by working deeply with Oregonians in Astoria, Lincoln City, and Pendleton and with several communities served by the Libraries of Eastern Oregon (LEO). Our free reading and discussion series--also called On Principle--offers citizens the chance to explore these important ideals in a forum where everyone is welcome to participate. On Principle is designed to encourage a variety of viewpoints, active participation, and careful listening. The fall 2006 issue of Oregon Humanities also addressed the five core principles.
In Astoria and Lincoln City On Principle took place in October 2006. Author and Linfield College professor David Gutterman opened each community's series with a discussion of citizenship, longing, and hope in America. Listen to Part 1 and Part 2 of his lecture (80 minutes total). In the weeks that followed, citizens were invited to gather at local venues to read, think, and talk about the core principles. The programs in Jackson County and Pendleton will take place in the later winter/early spring of 2007.
OCH compiled reading materials drawn from American history and literature to illuminate each of the five principles. The readings, all short and accessible, provide a common framework to begin the public conversations. Facilitators at each discussion will help ensure a respectful atmosphere where everyone has a chance to participate. Free copies of the reading materials are available online and in Astoria and Lincoln City at our community partners.
On Principle asks provocative questions. How can the Declaration of Independence's insistence that all men are created equal be squared with the Constitution's failure to enfranchise women and people of color? What is the value of civic engagement in an era when sound bites trump nuance in public discourse? What does it mean to be an American today? The series encourages participants to think about their own role as citizens and the values that define our country.
OCH is an independent, nonprofit affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) that is dedicated to the belief that knowledge and ideas are fundamental to the health of our communities. On Principle is funded by OCH by an NEH We the People grant, a nationwide grant program designed to strengthen the teaching, study, and understanding of American history and culture. On Principle is also funded by the generous support of local community partners and private donors.
Where will On Principle be held?
The Radio Program
On Principle began as a radio program aired in 2005. Listen to the programs or read the transcripts below. Read more »