Former US Congress members coming to Norwich to speak at free event

Two former members of the U.S. House of Representatives are visiting Norwich this November to meet with students and hold a public forum as part of Congress to Campus.

The speakers are Loretta Sanchez (Democrat - California) who served in the House of Representatives from 1997 to 2017 and Gregory Walden (Republican - Oregon) who served from 1999 to 2021.

The participants have over four decades of experience on Capitol Hill and they will be discussing issues in contemporary US politics. The discussion will be moderated by University of East Anglia American Studies.

Members of the public are invited to the American Library at the Millennium Library in the Forum in Norwich on Wednesday 8 November at 7.30pm to attend the event

For more information and to book a free ticket visit American Library on eventbrite.

Cllr Margaret Dewsbury, Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnerships, said: "It's with much pride that we'll be hosting this new partnership event, as better understanding of how democratic processes work gives people the opportunity to get involved and hopefully positively influence the running of their local communities. This free event may well be an eye opener for many, so whether or not you already have a passion for politics, this will be a fascinating first-hand insight into the workings of Washington's Capitol Hill."

The visit is intended to showcase the benefits of healthy bipartisanship and civility within disagreement. Congress to Campus also provides students with unique perspectives into careers in public service, including how to run for political office, managing work/life balance on Capitol Hill, and the thrill of debating legislation on the House or Senate floor.

Also in November, Norfolk's libraries are running a 'Big American Read' which will see every library across the county featuring a collection of books by American authors.

Any enquiries about the public event please contact americanlibrary@norfolk.gov.uk.