The American Bar Association "Dialogue" series is built upon the idea of stimulating conversations about law and its role in society in high school classrooms and community settings. Often facilitated by a lawyer or judge, each dialogue includes background information, focus questions, and advice on holding civil discussions, as well as resources and other related information. Topics include separation of powers, the American jury, Brown v. Board of Education, and a dialogue on freedom focusing on American civic values. Following are brief descriptions of each Dialogue; you'll want to visit each Dialogue's website for more information and accompanying resources.

Dialogue on the Separation of Powers
The latest ABA Dialogue looks at the three branches of government, focusing on the principles and conflicts that define the system of separation of powers established by the United States Constitution. Focus questions, current points of conflict, and other activities are included. Click on the link above to find out more and download your free copy.

Dialogue on the American Jury
The Dialogue on the American Jury is designed to explore the many issues related to trial by jury. Topics include history of trial by jury, issues confronting the jury today (e.g., unanimous verdicts, exemptions from service), and landmark rulings on the jury. Visit the American Jury Initiative for more information.

Dialogue on Brown v. Board of Education
May 17, 2004, marked the 50th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court's landmark decision in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas. In commemoration of this anniversary, the Division for Public Education introduced the "Dialogue on Brown v. Board of Education" to aid in exploring the issues related to Brown. Also be sure to visit the ABA Commission on Brown v. Board of Education for more information and resources.

Dialogue on Freedom
The ABA Dialogue on Freedom explores American civic values and traditions using a set of hypotheticals and/or conversation "starters" organized around three themes:

• American Identities and Constitutional Values;
• Individual Freedoms, Democratic Participation, and Other Cultures; and
• American Civic Values in a Global Age.