U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Richard Durbin and former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood will kick off our “Democracy Dialogues” series on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 7 p.m. in Illinois State University’s Braden Auditorium at the Bone Student Center.

This free, all-ages-welcome event is hosted by the McLean County Museum of History in collaboration with Illinois State University, WGLT, the Dirksen Congressional Center, and other community partners. It will set the tone for four forthcoming Democracy Dialogue events throughout the community in 2026. Please visit mchistory.org/250 for more information on the series.

Drawing on decades of public service and working “across the aisle,” Senator Durbin and Secretary LaHood will explore the nation’s founding ideals, how those principles have shaped our history, and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

The questions asked of these seasoned statesmen will be generated from community submissions and curated by event organizers. Be part of the dialogue by submitting your questions no later than February 6. Click here to submit your questions: https://forms.illinoisstate.edu/forms/democracy_dialogues

Additional Event Information:

Registration is not required for attendance.

Doors open at 6 p.m. The program will begin promptly at 7 p.m.

Security screening may cause delays. A 6:30 p.m. arrival is recommended for appropriate time to find parking, screening, and selecting a seat in the auditorium.

Free parking is available in the Bone Student Center lot, accessible from Locust St.

If you need a special accommodation to fully participate in this event, contact Presidential and Trustee Events at (309) 438-8790 or UniversityEvents@IllinoisState.edu. Please allow sufficient time to arrange accommodations.

This event is open to members of the media, and a mult box will be provided. Advance registration is required. Click here to register online by February 17 at 10 a.m. Please email MediaRelations@IllinoisState.edu with questions.