With Election Day just six weeks away, you’ve undoubtedly heard someone say it’s the most pivotal election of our time. During tonight’s first Presidential debate, we’ll hear both candidates discuss their perspectives on themes like “America’s Direction,” “Achieving Prosperity” and “Securing America,” covering topics ranging from refugees to national security to policing.

There’s never been a more important time to be an informed citizen, so we’ve rounded up our programs featuring experts on the issues most important to voters. Join us at Chicago Ideas Week this year to gain a deeper understanding of these pressing issues and many, many more.

Future of National Security

Join a former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and a previous Deputy Director of the CIA for an in-depth look into the state of the United States’ national security.

The State of the Syrian Refugee Crisis

Where will refugees go, and what should our role be in giving them aid? Explore the causes, realities and potential outcomes of the crisis.

After the Arab Spring: The United States’ Middle East Strategy & What’s Next?

Join four reporters who have covered the region extensively to discover what they’ve seen and what’s next for the U.S.’ role there.

Humanity and Technology: What’s at Stake?

The world is in the middle of its fourth industrial revolution. Hear how United States CTO Megan Smith and other leaders approach the ethical risks of innovation.

How to Cure Cancer

Discover how leading scientists and researchers are turning Joe Biden’s “Cancer Moonshot” into action.

Policing: Force of the Future

What if we could reimagine the role of the police and change our approach to policing from distrust to positive action?

Chicago: Where Diversity Meets Segregation

The challenges facing Chicago have popped up all over the country. Explore some of the most creative solutions for bridging the gap between the “two Chicagos.”

How the Military is Solving the Energy Crisis

If the United States military can invest in alternative energy, why can’t the rest of the country? Join Assistant Secretary of the Navy Dennis McGinn to learn more.

Beyond the Big Ticket Issues

Issues we’ll all vote on at the polls extend beyond the hot-button topics we’ll cover at the stage programs above. Check out these additional programs that will help you develop a robust sense of the what’s at stake in this year’s election for communities across the country and the world.

• Understand how journalism has changed and what effect it’s had on how we consume news at You Won’t Believe How Journalism is Changing.
• Hear from Alicia Garza, co-creator of the Black Lives Matter movement at Leadership: How Today’s Leaders Make Critical Choices.
• Watch the final Presidential debate with Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs and Deputy Treasurer Jay Rowell at Inside a Political Campaign: Presidential Debate Viewing Party.
• Go Behind the Justice System at Cook County Jail, the largest jail in the entire country.
• Gain a better understanding of life across the border during An Open Dialogue with Mexico City.
• Learn how a community leader can revitalize a neighborhood and create jobs at City As Classroom: Explore Pullman with the Civic Leadership Academy & Chicago Community Trust.