Harry Cook Social Justice Series hosts bi-annual Mock Trial

SOAR Lifelong Learning Institute presents the latest installment of The Harry Cook Social Justice Series Mock Trial. The upcoming event, "Fascism: Can It Happen in America?" will take place on Friday, May 17 from 1-3:30pm at The Hawk Community Center in Farmington Hills. This insightful forum is designed to provoke thoughtful discussion on the resilience of America’s democracy in the face of authoritarian ideologies. Admission is free, and the event is open to the public.

As political tensions rise and historical parallels draw concern, this mock trial will explore the authoritarian, ultranationalist ideology of fascism and if those ideologies could infiltrate American governance. The mock proceedings will be managed by Attorney Chris Nesi, along with Attorney Sabrina Cronin, who will be presiding as judge.

Attorney Joseph Kosmala will argue the potential for fascism in the U.S. against Professor Robert Sedler, who will contend that American institutions are robust enough to withstand such threats. Their arguments will be supported by expert testimony from Attorney Bill Barnwell as well as historian and journalist Jack Lessenberry, who will delve into the historical and theoretical underpinnings of fascism.

After the arguments conclude, participants will receive ballots acting as the jury to decide the case.

“We are thrilled to be bringing the Harry Cook Social Justice Series Mock Trial back again this year as part of SOAR’s mission to enhance the quality of life of our participants and the community through through-provoking academic education lectures, events, and shared interest groups,” said Debra Yamstein, SOAR executive director. “What started as an organization designed for retired adults in 2011 has evolved into a collaborative learning environment for anyone with a curious mind and the time to invest in learning more about the world around us.”

This event is a critical part of the Harry Cook Social Justice Series, which engages the community in regular mock trials on pressing issues.

“There's no doubt that millions of people are worried that American democracy is at stake in this election, and some fear we could be at risk of becoming a fascist state,” said longtime SOAR supporter and lecturer Jack Lessenbery. “With that in mind, we thought it would be a good idea to look at what fascism is and is not, and to try to assess whether we are indeed in danger, of if, in the words of Sinclair Lewis, it really can't happen here. We also thought the format of a trial might well be the best way to examine all the arguments on both sides and give the audience a chance to not only listen but make their opinions known as well.”

This year’s Harry Cook Social Justice Series is sponsored by The Harry Cook Charitable Fund, Oakland County Bar Foundation, and Walker Publicity Consulting. For more information and registration details, visit SoarExplore.com or call 248-626-0296.

SOAR Lifelong Learning Institute, formerly the Society of Active Retirees, is dedicated to providing enriching educational experiences that foster an understanding of key legal and historical issues within our society. For more information and registration details, visit SoarExplore.com.