Democracy Unconference: Past, Present & Future

Democracy Unconference

Saturday November 23, 2024 · 9:00am-3:00pm

Upstart Collective (also, Graybox)
107 SE Washington St #700, Portland, OR 97214

Main entrance South side of building on SE Washington (and needs access code, pound then four digit number), once inside the building proceed to elevator #1 on North side of building and go to the 7th floor, there is ample street parking available around the building.

Elevator unlocks at 8:30am

Why an Unconference?
An unconference is a unique, participant-driven event that challenges the traditional conference model. Instead of a predetermined schedule and set speakers, attendees of an unconference collaborate to determine the agenda and lead discussions on topics that interest them. It fosters an environment of open dialogue and exchange of ideas among peers, as well as an opportunity to network and build relationships. Unconferences often have a relaxed and informal atmosphere, encouraging active participation and engagement from all attendees. It's a dynamic and innovative way to bring together a diverse group of individuals and encourage the exploration of new ideas and perspectives.

The Facilitator Chelsea Smith, COO of HUUB is going to facilitate our unconference event. A great experienced facilitator makes the event, so prepare yourself for a wonderful time.

Multiple session topics are decided by attendees the morning of the event, and may include such things as the following.

- The evolution of voting rights and electoral systems
- Opportunities and challenges of technology in civic engagement
- Combating disinformation and preserving truth in democratic discourse
- Reimagining representative democracy for the 21st century
- Grassroots movements and their impact on democratic processes
- The role of education in fostering democratic citizenship
- Balancing individual liberties with collective security in democracies
- Economic inequality and its effects on democratic participation
- Global perspectives: Comparing democratic models across cultures

Ultimately, sessions are decided by attendees, and each session is a roundtable discussion that where all contribute and no one leads, pontificates or holds court. Everyone gets to participate and share equally.

What will our Unconference look like:
9:00am-9.30am Coffee, morning snacks & networking
9.30am-10:15am Overview and group agenda setting
10:15am-11:00am Session 1
11:15am-noon Session 2
12:15pm-1:00pm Session 3
1:15pm-2:00pm Session 4
2:00pm-2:45pm Lunch & Closing Comments
3:00pm and so it goes

Lunch is included. There will be meat, vegetarian, gluten-free and vegan options

Attendance is limited, sorry
Early, early bird ticket pricing is $15
Ticket prices scale to $75 day of event if any spots are open
$15 - now thru Nov 1
$35 - Nov 2 thru Nov 16
$75 - Nov 17 thru Nov 23 (if tickets are available)

Think of this as an open space conference that is driven by its participants. Unlike traditional conferences, an unconference allows for flexibility, open discussion, and debate, all fueled by its attendees. Innovative conversations with some of the brightest people, important purposes and tasks discussed without any formal agenda, and unplanned dialogue led by ultimately what peaks your interest most.

Come to build a collaborative network, establish partnerships, and be in a close community of people that value the same or similar topics of discussion. The sessions will be broken up into multiple 45-minute discussions and spaces are reserved for gatherings that happen throughout the day.

Who should attend? Whether you’re a CEO, a startup founder, a developer, a creative, a stay-at-home mom, an entrepreneur, an artist with a new idea, a solopreneur, a technologist, or simply just have interest in the topic of Democracy we welcome you to join us.

All our events have a Code of Conduct which all participants, members, partners, visitors, vendors, guests must abide by.