Fighting Oligarchy and Fascism in the 21st Century

Join the Center for Civic Education & Justice and the University YMCA for Friday Forum + Conversation Café!

This lunchtime series creates space to learn from diverse perspectives, engage in thoughtful dialogue, and connect with others across differences. Each program features speakers, panels, or interactive conversations designed to inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and action. 

Lunch is provided from the Y Thai Eatery at no cost, so come ready to eat, listen, learn, and join the conversation!

This week's speaker: Dylan Blaha

Dylan Blaha is a U.S. Army veteran, scientist, and community advocate whose experiences in military service, cancer research, and grassroots organizing have shaped his commitment to public service and social change. A University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign graduate with degrees in molecular and cellular biology and biochemistry, Blaha spent several years conducting cancer immunology research and has served in the Illinois Army National Guard for more than a decade, including deployments to Afghanistan and Germany. His work and advocacy center on questions of democracy, economic inequality, healthcare, education, and the responsibility of institutions and leaders to serve their communities. Drawing from his experiences in science, military service, and civic engagement, Blaha brings a unique perspective to conversations about leadership, public service, and creating meaningful change.