Celebrate civil discourse, inclusivity and free speech in weeklong, campus-wide celebration of Constitution Day on September 17 with this Special Presentation of Author's Theatre.

Join us for Pulitzer Prize-winning dramatist Robert Schenkkan who has imagined how far the anti-immigrant rhetoric might go. Writing on the eve of the 2016 presidential election, Schenkkan created BUILDING THE WALL, a play that recalls George Orwell’s 1984 and the Nazi regime: Executive actions. An immigration round-up of unprecedented scale. A declaration of martial law. is a terrifying and gripping exploration of what happens if we let fear win.

UAlbany’s Constitution Day and Great Dane Dialogue features a week of panels on navigating civil discourse in a divided society. Students will hear from journalists, advocates, and elected officials as they share perspectives on negotiation, collaboration, and civic engagement—offering real-world insights into building understanding, finding compromise, and strengthening democracy. 

Co-Sponsored by the Offices of Communications and Marketing, Inclusive Excellence, Student Affairs, First Year Experience, CATLOE, OGCR/Leading Questions, Rockefeller College, Interfaith Center, University Libraries and the New York State Writers Institute.