Discussion Gathering – Potluck & Fishbowl – When should the U S intervene militarily

* Local Focus: Houston Area

When Should the U.S. Intervene Militarily in Affairs Beyond Its Borders, and Why?:  A Braver Angels Potluck Supper and Fishbowl Discussion

Questions about military intervention continue to shape public debate over conflicts in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and elsewhere. Americans hold a wide range of views about when the United States should use military force abroad and what responsibilities come with being a global power. Decisions about war, deterrence, alliances, peacekeeping, and humanitarian intervention can have profound consequences for both our nation and the wider world.

Braver Angels invites you to join a Fishbowl discussion exploring these issues. The central question for the evening will be:

**When should the U.S. intervene militarily in affairs beyond its borders, and why?**

While current events may provide examples, the discussion will focus on the deeper principles, values, concerns, and experiences that shape our views about military intervention and America’s role in the world.

A Fishbowl discussion is a structured conversation designed to foster listening, reflection, and understanding across differences. The goal is not to persuade others or reach consensus, but to better understand how people think about important public issues.

The evening will begin with a potluck supper, providing an opportunity to meet fellow participants, build relationships, and enjoy informal conversation before the discussion begins. Many attendees find that these personal connections help create a more thoughtful and constructive dialogue experience.

Whether you are generally supportive of American military engagement abroad, skeptical of intervention, or still wrestling with these questions, your perspective is welcome.

Schedule:

• 6:00–7:00 PM – Potluck supper and informal conversation
• 7:00–8:30 PM – Moderated Fishbowl discussion

Participant and Observer Registration Options:

• Participant – Take part in the Fishbowl discussion, sharing their own views and experiences.
• Observer – Listen to the discussion. Then you are invited to offer comments and reflections at the end of the program.

During registration, we will ask about your general political orientation (lean Red/Republican, Blue/Democratic, Independent, or something else). This information is used only to help us structure the discussion so that a variety of viewpoints are represented and heard.

** This event is open to the media upon approval. Send requests to press@braverangels.org