Arizona Constitution is focus of forum April 11

A special centennial event on April 11 will feature a panel of top scholars and attorneys discussing “Arizona’s Constitution and Our Political Culture: The Progressive Roots.”

The free event will take place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at the Arizona Historical Society Museum, 1300 N. College Ave., in Papago Park.

The museum will extend its hours to allow attendees to view and experience its exhibits prior to the event. Displays detail the rich history of Arizona, which celebrated its 100th birthday on Feb. 14, 2012.

Constitution panelists include:

• Paul Bender, professor of law, Arizona State University

• David Berman, senior fellow, Morrison Institute for Public Policy

• Paul Eckstein, attorney, Perkins Coie LLP

• Philip VanderMeer, associate professor of history, Arizona State University

A question-and-answer session with the audience will follow the speakers’ presentations.

“This is a great opportunity for Arizonans to learn more about our state’s constitution, from its progressive roots to its application throughout the years in shaping the political and economic landscape yesterday, today and tomorrow,” said Berman.

Berman's special centennial briefing, "Arizona's Centennial: Remembering The Progressive Constitution," will serve as a basis for his discussion. The briefing can be found at morrisoninstitute.asu.edu.

The event is sponsored by Arizona Humanities Council and Morrison Institute for Public Policy.

Admission is free but registration is requested: elisabeth.s.smith@asu.edu or 602-496-0213.