SDIF brings citizens together to learn about an issue in order for them to make informed decisions about public policy. In our representative democracy, elected members of Congress represent the will of their constituents. Involving the grassroots citizen, SDIF creates an environment for learning and civic participation. After forum participation, citizens then let their voices be heard in various ways. SDIF also shares participants’ opinions through written reports. SDIF is a member of the National Issues Forums network.

In the casual atmosphere of a forum, a trained moderator welcomes participants and gives an overview of the issue and the forum process. Circle seating is preferred when possible. Ground rules, to help keep the discussion respectful, are noted. Participants, with the assistance of the moderator and an “issue map,” then discuss the benefits and drawbacks of approaches to an issue. Any opinion is welcome as long as it is within the ground rules. After discussion, there is a short reflection period. A questionnaire is sometimes used at the closing of a forum for research and report writing. We welcome inquiries about our past and upcoming forum reports.

Participating in a forum can help participants:

• Improve critical thinking skills
• Learn about issues
• Understand other points of view
• Practice listening skills
• Practice speaking skills
• Become part of a public voice
• Meet new people

The vision of the South Dakota Issues Forums is South Dakota citizens using its forum process to understand issues in depth to be able to make their own informed choices about public policy.

The mission of the South Dakota Issues Forums is to provide opportunities for learning about issues in an open, nonpartisan, and civil atmosphere.