Lone Star College-CyFair’s three-part “Summer Heat: Special Series on Political Hot Topics” kicks off next week to bring awareness to important social issues currently dividing Americans.

“As domestic political tensions continue to rise around a variety of topics, the LSC-CyFair Government Department is creating an opportunity for faculty to demonstrate and aid students and community members in engaging in civil discourse on emotionally charged topics,” said Miranda Ashworth, who teaches government.

The first in this series is titled “Guns in America - NRA, Common Sense Reform and Mental Health” set June 30. Following a short presentation, Ashworth, along with David Maslane, who teaches English, will facilitate an informal, round table, interactive conversation with attendees.

The series will continue with LSC-CyFair faculty Dr. Heidi Jo Green and Billy Justus as panelists for the “Abortion Rights and U.S. Supreme Court Rulings” forum July 21 and Librarian Tracy Williams for the “Freedom of Press and the Banning of Books Nationwide” forum Sept. 1.

“The key takeaway for these events is that civil discourse is essential for a functioning democracy to navigate these complex issues,” said Ashworth.

All forums in person will be held from 1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. in the Center for Academic and Student Engagement (CASE) building, room 114.

To attend the June 30 forum virtually, join the zoom meeting at bit.ly/LSC-GunsInUSA (passcode 743729) and email Nick.Gera@LoneStar.edu for assistance as needed.

Registration for summer classes starting July 14, as well as fall classes starting Aug, 29, is underway. For information, go to LoneStar.edu/regcyfair or LoneStar.edu/registration