The Commonwealth October/November 2018 by The Commonwealth Club of California

STACEY ABRAMS • SEAN SPICER • KATIE SOWERS • DAVID GERGEN

Commonwealth The

THE MAGAZINE OF THE COMMONWEALTH CLUB OF CALIFORNIA

OCT./NOV. 2018

NATIONAL INSECURITY MALCOLM NANCE: HOW RUSSIA IS DESTROYING DEMOCRACY

$5.00; free for members | commonwealthclub.org

PLUS: PROGRAM CALENDAR Complete Guide

MO R OC C AN DISCOVERY RABAT • FEZ • ERFOUD • OUARZAZATE • MARRAKECH • CASABLANCA

APRIL 2–15, 2019

Visit the imperial cities of Rabat, Meknes, Fez and Marrakech • Discover the ancient Roman ruins and exceptional mosaics of Volubilis • Enjoy a private Arabic music concert and the medieval medina (market) in Fez • Travel the scenic “Route of a Thousand Kasbahs” • Take a sunset excursion in the Sahara and a camel ride on the dunes • Witness dramatic Todra Gorges and the spectacular Atlas Mountains • Visit with a local Imam and take an optional cooking class • Experience Marrakech’s medina and Djemaa el Fna Square • Explore storied Casablanca and Hassan II mosque. Cost: $6,079 per person, double occupancy, including air from SFO, and air taxes and fees 40 CST: 2096889-

Brochure at commonwealthclub.org/travel

| 415.597.6720

travel@commonwealthclub.org

INSIDE13 THIS ISSUE 22 Katie Sowers

Two-month Calendar

Setting goals

Our handy 2-page overview.

Memorable travel, climate summit and more.

Behind the podium—afterthoughts by the former White House spokesperson

Editor’s Desk

A new anniversary

The Commons

First Word: Stacey Abrams A new, new Democrat

Malcolm Nance

How Russia is destroying democracy

Sean Spicer

Program Listings

What’s happening at the Club in October and November.

David Gergen

Late Breaking Events

Trying times in the political world

Program Information

On the Cover: Donald Trump & Vladimir Putin Photo from: www.kremlin.ru

Insight By Dr. Gloria Duﬀy

On this Page: Quentin Hardy (left) & Malcolm Nance

Photo by: James Meinerth

The communists tried to rig elections, but they did it with printing presses and leaflets. It just didn’t work. Now you can literally frame the mindset of an entire nation. They have operational doctrine and information warfare to where you think eliminating your constitution by vote is a good idea. You destroy democracy by using democracy, and Europe has been the testbed for this. MALCOLM NANCE

October/November 2018 - Volume 112, No. 6

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

EDITOR’S DESK

@cwclub youtube.com/commonwealthclub commonwealthclub.org

BUSINESS OFFICES

The Commonwealth, 110 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94105 feedback@commonwealthclub.org

VP, MEDIA & EDITORIAL

John Zipperer

ART DIRECTOR

James Meinerth

DIGITAL ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Photo by James Meinerth

Megan Turner

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ed Ritger James Meinerth Sonya Abrams

ADVERTISING INFORMATION

John Zipperer, Vice President of Media & Editorial, (415) 597-6715 jzipperer@commonwealthclub.org The Commonwealth (ISSN 0010-3349) is published bimonthly (6 times a year) by The Commonwealth Club of California, 110 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94105. Periodicals postage paid at San Francisco, CA. Subscription rate $34 per year included in annual membership dues.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Commonwealth, The Commonwealth Club of California, 110 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94105 Tel: (415) 597-6700 E-mail: feedback@commonwealthclub.org EDITORIAL TRANSCRIPT POLICY

The Commonwealth magazine covers a range of programs in each issue. Program transcripts and question-and-answer sessions are routinely condensed due to space limitations. Hear full-length recordings online at commonwealthclub. org/watch-listen, podcasts on Google Play and Apple iTunes, or contact Club oﬃces to buy a compact disc. Printed on recycled paper using soy-based ink.

THE NNWE THECOMMO COMMO WEAL ALTH TH

Happy (Another) Anniversary

his fall, we added another anniversary to The Commonwealth Club’s life. In addition to our birthday (February 3), we now have our anniversary of moving into the Club’s headquarters. One year ago, we opened the doors at 110 The Embarcadero, and we haven’t paused since then. You made it all possible. Many of you publicly supported the Club as we went through the long city planning approval process. Maybe you donated money to our capital campaign. Or invited a friend to their first-ever event at the new building, or bought a charter membership for someone, or took our weekly tour, or any of a large number of ways of showing your support for the organization and pride in your new headquarters. For all of that, happy move-in anniversary! Our second year here on the waterfront is shaping up to be even more packed with timely, provocative, fascinating, and entertaining events. If you have not been here yet, please commit to visiting the Club’s headquarters. We look forward to seeing you.

    , this issue our cover story features Malcolm Nance (pictured above with moderator Quentin Hardy). Nance is a former U.S. intelligence officer who has been raising the alarm about efforts by the Russian government to undermine the economies, parties, alliances and international order of democratic countries. Basically, Nance says if Americans do not counter these attempts to defeat democracy, there won’t be more anniversaries of the U.S. Constitution. Elsewhere this issue, White House veteran and CNN commentator David Gergen tackles American insecurity from a political perspective, and though he offers some reasons for hope, he was decidedly more downbeat than in his previous visit to the Club. Nance and Gergen have another similarity in their approaches. They say the solution to our problems is not withdrawing and disengaging. It is for Americans to be involved and informed, to explore issues and to vote. That sounds like a classic Commonwealth Club position and mission to me. JOHN Z I P P E R E R VP, ME DIA & ED I T O RI AL

LaDoris Cordell at one of her many Commonwealth Club appearances.

programs as a member of panels and has also moderated Club programs on a wide range of topics. This program is certain to sell out, so get more information at commonwealthclub.org/ travel.

Global Climate Action at Home

Photo: Sonya Abrams

Touring Civil Rights History

n April 2019, the Club’s travel program will send a group of travelers on a timely new trip through civil rights history. Called “On the Road to Freedom: Understanding the Civil Rights Movement,” the trip includes visits to some of the most significant locations in this country’s struggle for legal equality for its citizens. From the Governor Jerry Brown

hotel where Martin Luther King, Jr., was assassinated to Montgomery, Alabama’s Sixteenth Street Baptist Church—where a bombing killed four young girls in 1963— this will be a journey you won’t forget. Travelers will also visit human rights museums and memorials, and they will have meetings with people involved in historic civil rights actions. Leading the trip will be retired Judge LaDoris Cordell, who is no stranger to Club audiences. Cordell has participated in

California’s soon-to-retire governor, Jerry Brown, seems determined to go out with a bang. In early September he signed a number of bills that restricted oil and gas extraction off the state’s coastline and committed the Golden State to get all of its energy from renewable resources by 2045. But that wasn’t all; the week of September 10, he hosted a Global Climate Action Summit in San Francisco, and the Club’s Climate One team was involved. On September 11, Climate One teamed up with Capital Public Radio, Cool Effect and the summit to host a Club program featuring heavy-hitters in the environmental world. Cool Effect CEO Marisa De Belloy, former EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy, 350.org founder Bill McKibben, NextGen America President Tom Steyer and SCOPE CEO Gloria Walton joined Climate One founder Greg Dalton on-stage at 110 The Embarcadero. The summit brought together representatives of states, cities, businesses and nongovernmental organizations from around the world to focus on ways to address climate change at a sub-national level. The Democratic governor has forcefully opposed the energy policies of President Donald Trump, but the topic of Brown’s summit also has a bipartisan flavor. His predecessor, Republican Arnold Schwarzenegger, spoke several times at Climate One programs, where he touted the actions that states and provinces could do if they banded together on environmental action.

Twittersphere

Photo: State of California

Jeffrey Field tweeted this response to “Dilbert” creator Scott Adams, who moderated our program with Fox News’ Greg Gutfeld: “I think you’re on the wrong side of history, but I love Dilbert and I loved your hosting Commonwealth Club with Greg Gutfeld. Sue me.” OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

Enjoy the holidays right here at The Commonwealth Club!

CELEBRATE

NEW YEAR’S EVE at The Commonwealth Club

Join us Tuesday, December 11, at 5:30 p.m., for a

HOLIDAY SOCIAL

before the evening’s Week-to-Week Politics Roundtable. For more information: commonwealthclub.org/memberparty

GIFT MEMBERSHIPS

Give the gift of conversation with a membership to the Club. For more information: commonwealthclub.org/gom

And don’t forget! As a member, you can

RENT OUR BEAUTIFUL SPACE for holiday parties, birthdays, weddings and other special events.

For more information, contact Lisa Moschetti at lmoschetti@commonwealthclub.org

Tickets on sale September 14th Sponsor Packets Available

ksteffy@commonwealthclub.org

FIRST WORD

WITH STACEY ABRAMS

A NEW, NEW DEMOCRAT

oth of my parents grew up Hattiesburg, Mississippi, which is an hour north of Gulfport. My dad likes to say he grew up on the wrong side of the tracks and my mom grew up on the wrong side of the wrong side of the tracks. My mom’s family was in abject poverty in Mississippi; my dad’s family was slightly better off, but not by much. [My parents’] influence on me is three-fold. One was that perseverance was built into our blood. They raised us to understand that you cannot suggest that there is some impediment to your success that they didn’t know about. It was like growing up in a Dickens novel with my parents sometimes. So every time you would say, “Mom, but this happened” or “Dad, this was a bad thing,” they’re like, “Once upon a time . . . .” Yes, okay, fine. But it was a sense that they didn’t allow hardship to diminish their sense of capacity and their possibility. Number two, they gave us rules. They said, “Look, you’re going to go to church. You’re going to go to school. You’re going to take care of each other. You’re going to go to church because you should have a moral framework in which you operate, and that framework should never be used to harm others. It should be used to inform you making good decisions.”

Photos by Ed Ritger

They said, “You’re going to go to school, because even though it didn’t guarantee us economic success, it is the best predictor of success and we’re going to make sure all of you do it,” and they sent all six of us to college. The third was, “Take care of each other.” By that they meant— we had very little, and we would point that out when they would wake us up to go volunteer; we’re like, “Yeah, you do know we’re poor too?” [Laughter.]. My father’s response was, “Having nothing is not an excuse for doing nothing.” So they would take us to volunteer. It meant something to spend time in spaces where your relative lack really butted up against someone’s actual lack of more. My mom would say “No matter how little we have, there’s someone with less. Your job is to serve that person.” That mantra and that organized way of raising their children in the midst of poverty in Mississippi really led me to believe that I was capable of anything I wanted. They were very clear; they didn’t care what we did, in terms of what achievement we wanted to have, but we were expected to achieve. And they expected to be there every step of the way to make sure we got it done. —“Stacey Abrams: Leading from the Minority” June 27, 2018 OCTOBBER/NOVEMBER 2018

M N NATIONAL INSECURITY: HOW RUSSIA IS DESTROYING DEMOCRACY

MALCOLM NANCE

Retired Intelligence Officer; Author, The Plot to Destroy Democracy: How Putin’s Spies Are Winning Control of America and Dismantling the West

In conversation with

QUENTIN HARDY

Head of Editorial, Google Cloud Nance says when Russia shed the Soviet Union, it continued the former KGB’s aggressive actions toward America and the democratic West. From the July 9, 2018 program in San Francisco, “Malcolm Nance: How Russia Is Destroying Democracy.”

Photos by James Meinerth

QUENTIN HARDY: Last week the Senate Intelligence Committee released a report that supported the view of three different U.S. intelligence agencies that Russia tried to help Donald Trump win the 2016 U.S. presidential election. Senator Mark Warner, the Democratic vice chairman of the committee, said, “The Russian effort was extensive and sophisticated, and its goals were to undermine public faith in the democratic process, to hurt Secretary Clinton and to help Donald Trump.” A foreign adversary effectively attacked the centerpiece of our democracy. Our guest tonight wants to go deeper, and his book The Plot to Destroy Democracy posits what the senators affirmed: Russia interfered with our election and it’s only part of a much longer and more pervasive attack being waged on the West and in particular on the United States. He takes us through the history of Russian disinformation campaigns, Putin’s close associates and their ruthless philosophies of power, their new method of hybrid warfare that Russia has been developing for over a decade, and the employment of witting and unwitting actors in the West, including the right-wing nationalist movements across Europe and quite possibly our president. Let’s start a little bit with your intelligence background, because I think it really is key for the kind of book you’ve written here. MALCOLM NANCE: I came from the naval intelligence world, in particular cryptology. We go out, we do some things and we collect information to keep you safe. I did that for 20 years, and I spent my entire time in the Middle East, South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. People naturally go, “Why are you writing these books about Russia?” Well, I was born in the Cold War, I was raised in the Cold War and I started my career deep in the Cold War; back in those days there was this nefarious organization who was our opposition in the intelligence world known as the KGB. The KGB, for you young kids, is this Russian intelligence organization that was all-encompassing, a Soviet intelligence organization. They were Soviet communist. Some people say, “Wait a minute. The KGB ceased to exist 25 years ago.” No, when the Soviet Union transitioned to a fledgling democracy and a consumer economy and what is now a very hard-right conservative country, they just changed the letters of KGB to FSB and broke off some of the duties of

that organization. HARDY: Many of the habits of disinformation and propaganda were just ported over wholesale. NANCE: All you had to do was put it on new paper with a header on it that said “FSB,” right? All that stuff still exists. It is the keys and the treasures of Russian intelligence. But for those of us who are of a certain age, we all remember the KGB as being this global organization that infiltrated everywhere and carried out operations. I was part of that world. Even though I worked in the Middle East, the KGB was really everywhere. Go to Naples, Italy, and they would warn you the KGB and their subordinates and their contractors would try to entrap you in sexual dalliances or some drug-related activity. You go to Naples, there they are trying to sell you drugs in the men’s room. You go to Port Said, which was an Egyptian [place] that was backed by the Russians for decades, there they would be. Working the mission in Libya, Libyan intelligence—backed by KGB. Iraqi intelligence—backed by KGB. They were everywhere. They were ubiquitous. HARDY: At the time you’re working, Putin is in East Germany as a KGB agent. NANCE: At that time Vladimir Putin was running human agents into West Germany to steal computer technology and to try to convert people to the Soviet ideology. The Cold War is not that far behind us, where this was a requirement for everyone in intelligence to know what these people were doing. In my world I ran into them so much. We ran into their operations, we collected against them. The Soviet armed forces were constantly in our face. You really had to know who the strategic adversary of the United States was. When it collapsed people thought, “This is a new day in Russia and what we’ll get is a fledgling democracy,” which, for a short period of time, we did have. But their intelligence activities never changed. Their armed forces collapsed, but there are people out in the field stilling trying

to recruit human agents, still trying to use signals intelligence against the United States. It diminished a bit, but then Vladimir Putin, the former KGB officer, who would later become the first director of the FSB, took over and became the leader of Russia. That would be like making me president, because at that point you start thinking, “Hey, I really had fun when I was in operations.” So you sit down in the Oval Office and you go, “I want to know every clandestine mission going on in the world today.” Well, that’s Vladimir Putin—but the difference is he could operationalize everything he had learned in the KGB, and then everything that the KGB never completed he was now in a position to bring into the Russian Federation to carry out his strategy. HARDY: The strategy you describe is reflected in everything from supporting the likes of right-wing nationalist parties across Europe, recruiting kleptocrat businessmen in Russia to go forth into the West and co-opt people, cyber invasions or cyber warfare in Georgia or in Ukraine, and military activity in Ukraine. Is this a grand methodical plan or opportunistic behavior? NANCE: I think it started as opportunistic behavior. This was a hardcore Soviet follower, he believed in the mission of the KGB. There’s a story by Masha Gessen, who wrote

his biography, where as a young kid, I think he was like 12 or 13 years old, he went to an open house of the KGB and he said, “I want to be a KGB officer,” and of course they laughed at him and he said, “How do I do it?” and they said, “Go to school, study hard, go to university, get a degree in law and then come back and apply.” That’s exactly what he did. HARDY: Checked all the boxes, yep. NANCE: He was recruited, became a middle-level officer in Europe and that’s where he carried out his activities. But then his world crashed around him. The Soviet Union disappeared as a political organization, but Russians didn’t change. The only thing that changed is they now had access to goods from the West, they could make money, and everything there that would belong to the collective, which was everything from coffee cups to orchids, belonged to the state. Vladimir Putin’s job, when he returned to St. Petersburg, was to help liquidate that state, which meant steal whatever, cash it out, sell it to people in the West, take your illicit billions and then go buy apartments in Monaco and Baden-Baden and New York City.

THE COMMO N WE AL TH

HARDY: I would argue reading your books, you think something did change though, which is there was created some disillusion with what the Soviet Union had been, but an enormous resentment for the victory dance the West was carrying out, as if now Russia should become a capitalist state. NANCE: You’re absolutely right. Remember when the Soviet Union fell, they had the mini coup d’état, where these older, hardcore Soviets were trying to take back the government from Yeltsin. Then later when that all failed, we saw Russia started having newspapers, television channels, were really big consumers of the West. People started thinking they were becoming a real fledgling democracy. What they were becoming was confused, because they have their own beliefs. They had, prior to the Soviet Union, centuries of being led by these autocrats, and in fact Tsar Nicholas I had a national motto of “Orthodoxy”—with the Russian Orthodox church—”Nationalism, Autocracy.” That was a relatively good guiding principle that of course was literally killed by the Soviet Union. HARDY: That transposes very well to a number of the right-wing movements he’s

supporting in Europe and the U.S. NANCE: Yeah, but Putin was developing his own belief of this new country that he was now taking charge of. How should it develop? What is it? What is their identity? I think he found a lot of comfort in Tsar Nicholas’s motto, but he added another factor because many people in Russia were getting insanely rich, and anyone who would go along with Putin and Yeltsin at that time could keep their money, but when he became president he realized he had to be a real strongman leader and anyone who crossed him, the easiest thing to do was to act like the Soviets. You nationalize their assets, you seize them and you have other oligarchs, super rich, buy them out and get rid of them, to the point where no one was making real billions in Russia without his say-so. But more important, he made sure that every oligarch had a KGB or FSB officer on their staff. HARDY: It’s almost as if he jailed Khodorkovsky to show one outlier what would happen. NANCE: He absolutely did and seized all of his assets, and everyone else got the message. This is how he took over the city of St.

Petersburg when he was up and coming. He brought the mafia under control by promising them their cut and when they got out of line, he used FSB or KGB assets to bring them into line. The Russians knew who the KGB were. Even if you’re a Mafioso you know that you were gonna disappear, end up in a furnace, or turned into a millstone. Literally, those were the punishments. HARDY: What has he been doing in the West, specifically in the U.S., into 2016 and you believe now, right? NANCE: I think that they found their footing in the early 2000s. Everyone there believed in orthodoxy, nationalism, autocracy, and he added oligarchy. He wasn’t going to be Peter the Great. He was not going to be bringing the West to Russia. His philosophers and friends realized that Russia needed to make itself great again, right? If that sounds familiar — HARDY: Yeah, hats available at the gift shop. NANCE: It isn’t an original phrase and neither is “draining the swamp,” which came from a philosopher of Putin’s, Aleksandr Dugin. But Putin realized that and then also realized they couldn’t actually achieve a stra-

tegic goal—whereby being part of the consumer world and having modern technology at their fingertips, that they could never have achieved under the Soviet Union—which is make Russia a strategic competitor on par with the United States, even though they have the gross domestic product of Italy. Russia is not a rich nation. It’s a nation rich in three things: oil and gas, atomic bombs and the sale of weapons. So how do you do that? It’s simple. You bring the West down, and you step on them and use them to propel yourself up. But back in the old days—again, I have to go back to the Soviet Union—they viewed the West as a corrupt deity that was holding back the world. So for him, he realized the West was like Russia, fundamentally conservative, or at least that’s what he saw it as, and that Russians were conservatives and now orthodox conservatives. So they started using the methodologies of Russian intelligence to identify who their allies in the West could be that would naturally support them. HARDY: Under this scenario, the near or effective collapse of the world financial system in 2008 and the [misery] of millions of people who see this amorphous international

force committing this failure and receiving no punishment plays perfectly into where he wants to go. NANCE: You’re absolutely right. You see the collapse of the global markets, which took a lot of their money, but you also have a nation that [for] the average person in Russia, other than that they could buy Nutella, didn’t really improve. In the West it was devastating, but Russia itself, you have to understand, they would see this global transformation and say, “How can we capitalize from that?” That’s a spy’s way of thinking, right? They say, “Look at who are out there. Who could be our natural allies?” It was initially the European conservative parties and many of those parties were untouchable. I mean the Austrian Freedom Party, created in 1952 by two ex-Nazis who had served in World War II. HARDY: Golden Dawn in Greece. NANCE: That’s right. Golden Dawn in Greece. All the organizations that were fascist, conservative but on the borderline Neo-Nazi if not open Nazi. These groups, unlike the way the Soviet Union backed the leftist Western terrorist groups like Red Army OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

Faction and Action directe in France, they saw the conservative movement as closer to them ideologically and they started funding these organizations in Europe. Conservatism in Europe right now is fundamentally bought and paid for by Moscow. HARDY: All of which is a preamble to 2016 here. So what happens there? And who is Donald Trump in all this? NANCE: I know that there’s been some recent reporting where people assert that Donald Trump was co-opted in the ’80s and turned into a Russian asset, but a lot of people don’t use these terms of art correctly. I think very early on, when Russia was liquidating all those billions and hiding their money in real estate all around the world, that Donald Trump became a useful idiot. Now you think back to the Soviet Union terms, those guys believed in the ideology. A useful idiot is a person who will do things that benefit you because it benefits them and they don’t care what your ideology is, and selling real estate to Russians around New York City and Florida was their best— HARDY: If they’re pathologically incurious, that’s a positive. NANCE: Absolutely. Not just incurious. Yuri Bezmenov, the intelligence officer who talked

THE COMMO N WE AL TH

about the target of KGB recruitment was always a narcissist who was insatiable in terms of greed. Now I’m not saying that that was a framework, but surprisingly someone fit that mold and those kind of people you monitor. We found that as far back as the early 1980s, Czech intelligence, what is now the Czech Republic, Czechoslovakian intelligence for the KGB had been monitoring Donald Trump, who was married to Ivanka Trump and had been sending back regular reports. Those reports are now on the internet. Over time Donald Trump was interested in doing business with Russia, which he saw, I guess, as this bastion of future money, natural resources, grand hotels and hot chicks and all of that would come to be true. . . . We are at a point where the people who are put into play, what they want done for their own personal use, for their family use and for a strategic adversary who understands that they can now realign the world. We are literally, Wednesday, when at the NATO conference you are going to see the indicators of realignment of the world, where the Poles will move away from the Atlantic alliance, Washington, so the European capital— HARDY: You’ve already had the German foreign minister say, “We gotta work on plan B.”

NANCE: Yeah, plan B is NATO without America. HARDY: [The NATO summit is] to be followed by a tête-à-tête between Putin and Trump. NANCE: He’s gotta go in and report in to the boss and see how things are going—and I don’t say that lightly. I don’t know what the psychology is behind Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump’s relationship, but that relationship is a mentor-confidante relationship. Anyone in U.S. intelligence or under the personal responsibility program for atomic weapons would have already been dragged in, polygraphed multiple times and been considered a potential asset of a foreign agency. Donald Trump was elected, and this is part of the beauty of the Russian plan. The communists tried to rig elections, but they did it with printing presses and leaflets. It just didn’t work. Now you can literally frame the mindset of an entire nation. They have operational doctrine on how to do that and information warfare to where you think eliminating your constitution by vote is a good idea. You destroy democracy by using democracy, and Europe has been the testbed for this.

Photo by Ed Ritger

SETTING GOALS WITH KATIE SOWERS

The NFL’s first LGBTQ coach and second female coach talks about her career, family and lifelong love of football. From the July 17, 2018, program “49ers Assistant Coach Katie Sowers,” in San Francisco. KATIE SOWERS

Assistant Coach, San Francisco 49ers

MICHELLE MEOW

Host, “The Michelle Meow Show,” TV and Radio; Board President, SF Pride—Moderator

JOHN ZIPPERER

Host, Week to Week Political Roundtable— Moderator MICHELLE MEOW: We’re honored to have our guest here, Katie Sowers, the first-ever LGBTQ coach in the NFL and also making history as only the second female coach in the history of the NFL. KATIE SOWERS: Thank you guys for having me. Lots of fun. But you said that I was the first LGBT coach; let me just say that I have, since I’ve been out, had [someone] who had previously coached in the NFL—I won’t give his name—that came out to me as gay. And he’s not out in his profession. So to me, he was a trailblazer. Even though he didn’t come out, he was leading the way just [because] he was there before I was. You know, it was just my time to come out. MEOW: I was reading about you, and it just sounded like coming out was one of those things in your journey—it was very early on in some ways. SOWERS: I grew up in a very religious family. My grandpa was the president for a Mennonite college, Hesston College. My mother

was a director of nursing at that college. At that time, teachers could never be out publicly. They wouldn’t get the job if they were out. I know that my parents were very open, but I didn’t know how I would be accepted. It wasn’t until about my junior year in college when I actually came out. I was in this long-term relationship and I broke up with this girl. Then, selfishly, like everyone always does, you see them with someone else and then all the sudden you’re like, “That sucks.” All the sudden you kind of want to be with them again. In the most irrational way possible. So I was going through that. I was home; I remember going to the living room and my mom was watching TV. I went and just sat down. I don’t remember what was on TV. I think I was probably just staring at the ground. Just like, “Oh, God. It’s going to happen.” She looks over and realizes that I’m crying—about my irrational sadness of my relationship. She said, “Oh, honey, what’s wrong?” I said, “Well, it’s about my best friend, Ashley.” And she said, “Okay.” I said, “Well, we were together. We were dating.” Then I just started crying even more. There was kind of a long pause, and she looks at me and goes, “And is she seeing other people?” I said, “Yeeeesss.” It was just this relief. So I kind of just went into my bedroom and that was really the conversation. My dad came home. I wasn’t ready to talk to my dad about it at that point. That was already too much. My mom comes into the room and I will never forget this advice she gave me. She said, “Katie, you know, there’s more to life than people.” We both just started laughing, because we thought, “Okay. There’s more to life than people.” Really? Life is about people. But that was . . . I mean it was just this funny OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

piece of advice that was not only saying, “I love you for who you are,” but also that “I’m here for you.” So it was a pretty emotional moment. MEOW: When did you fall in love with football? SOWERS: Early on. When I was younger, I would say about six or seven. I have all these journal entries talking about how much I love football. Every day after school, I’d go home and play football. Football’s my favorite sport. One of my journal entries I actually have, I stated, “Since I can’t play football, I guess I’ll play basketball.” Every Sunday my twin sister and I would make a list at my grandma’s Sunday dinner. It was always a formal Sunday dinner after church. We would always write down all the boys in the neighborhood, and we would call them—and pretty much we’d cross out all of them, because I think they thought I hit too hard. I’m not sure. I had this technique that I used when I was little. I would take their shirt and I would spin them around and then I’d just throw them down. It worked really well, but I don’t think that they liked it too much. But we would get this whole list of kids in the neighborhood to play football. It was a really, really fascinating sport to me. My dad never played football, my mom never played football. My dad was a college basketball coach, but I remember one of the best Christmases: My dad got my twin sister and me some used football equipment from the college that he coached at. Probably the most stinky pads, practice jerseys you could ever think of, but it was the best Christmas present because he knew that that’s what we wanted. JOHN ZIPPERER: Do you remember the first professional game you went to? SOWERS: It wasn’t until probably in college when I went to a Chief’s game. But I was a big Dallas Cowboys fan when I was little. MEOW: You mentioned coming out in college—that did impact [your] path from a career perspective. I think LGBTQ people have this unique way of never quitting. You just didn’t quit. SOWERS: Yeah. I always say that sometimes bad things happen to you that put you directly where you need to be. For me, since I thought football wasn’t an option for me, I decided I was going to be a basketball coach, because I knew I wanted to coach. I was going to this Mennonite school up in Indiana. My basketball team needed help with coaches. They had very little help; they did not have a lot of money with the athletic department. So when I was already done with basketball, I decided I was just going to email my coach. Now I’ve been a captain three out of the four years that I played basketball. I was a resident leader at my college; I led the floor. Now, that’s just to give you an idea I wasn’t some trouble-maker. I emailed my coach and I said, “I would just love to volunteer my time to help as a practice player, as a coach.” He said, “Well, you better come in so we can talk about this.” So I did; I thought maybe we were going to talk about some job that could be possibly opening, building my resume for this future basketball coaching job. He closed the door when I got into his office and he said, “You know, with you being off the team and then two other girls that were lesbians”—they had transferred out—”We got rid of all that. So we don’t want you around the team.” I remember sitting there and I was almost in tears. He said, “You know, it’s nothing personal.” Then he got up and he gave me a hug. I just remember walking out and I called my mom in tears. She was like, “Honey, it’s okay. You’ll have other opportunities.” Then she

THE COMMO N WE AL TH

called back, soon after, and she was like, “No. That’s wrong. You should be upset about it. I’m sorry that I even said it was okay.” But looking back, there’s times I want to write him a thank you note and say, “Because of that door that closed, it opened another opportunity for me.” I probably would not be here today; I’d probably be coaching basketball somewhere. I would’ve been content, but I don’t think I would’ve actually found my love, again, in football. ZIPPERER: You’ve said that was the first time you really encountered that kind of reaction to your sexual orientation. You grew up in a small town in Kansas in a religious family. I think lots of folks on the coasts and elsewhere would think that would be an everyday experience. What don’t we understand about Kansas? SOWERS: I think one thing that we don’t understand, or that we fail to realize, is that oftentimes we stereotype people. No matter what it is or who they are. Whether it’s for good or bad, we stereotype. If we go into a situation where, because they’re from a small town, because they’re super-religious, if we assume that they’re not going to be welcoming to who we are, we’re closing off ourselves to what could potentially be a beautiful relationship. I saw that in my mentor Scott Pioli [of the Atlanta Falcons], where I almost didn’t open up to him about my life because I had already had this preconceived idea that he wasn’t going to accept me. That’s something that I think we all need to be a little bit more aware of when we enter into a situation. We can’t always assume that because of someone’s background or who they are that they’re automatically going to feel one way about who we are as people. ZIPPERER: A lot of times we hear from folks who are in work situations that it really matters what the organization’s environment is, from the top down. You’ve worked for the Falcons. You’re now with the 49ers. What are those organizations like in respect to engaging with people with diversity? SOWERS: Both organizations are huge with the type of people that they bring in. You’ll hear [49ers head coach] Kyle Shanahan talk about how everyone always says, “What type of culture are you going to create?” He said, “There’s not a specific type of culture that I want to create. It’s about I bring in the right people, and the people will create the culture.” I think that’s what has happened when you have the leadership that’s all about who we’re getting, not only as players, but as people. As men, as women. You see that respect just pass on because it’s not what they’re supposed to do, they know that’s what makes the team better. I’m here for a reason. When you find those people that just fall in line with that culture, I think you can’t go wrong. MEOW: What are you excited for for the new season? SOWERS: I am really excited for this season. I talked about culture and what you create, the positive environment. I think if you look at any team and just throw up the record, 6-and-10, anyone would say, “Well, that’s not a great record.” But if you put “0-and-9” right before it, everything changes. For a coach like Kyle to build this culture by putting the right people in place where you have an 0-and-9 record and you still have a team that knows they’re not going to playoffs but continues to play harder than any other team, and can end the season six and 10. That’s something that I don’t think anyone can even comprehend how huge that is. So I’m super-excited. With the positive culture, with just the people that we have in the room, it’s going to be a good year.

SEAN SPICER BEHIND THE PODIUM

SEAN SPICER Former White House Press Secretary; Author, The Briefing In conversation with

MELISSA CAEN

Politics and Legal Reporter, CBS Bay Area (KPIX 5)

Photos by James Meinerth

From realizing his dream of being a press secretary to watching Melissa McCarthy lampoon him, Sean Spicer reports on his brief time in the White House. From the August 2, 2018 program in San Francisco “Sean Spicer: The Brieﬁng.” MELISSA CAEN: You wrote that “working in the White House and speaking for the president has been a dream of mine.” Now, was that dream to work for a president or did you have a special sort of affinity for— SEAN SPICER: As a kid growing up in the ’80s and ’90s, you watched “The West Wing“ and you’re like, “God, that’s really cool.” But the interesting thing about it is that I never thought it was something I could ever do. I grew up in a working class family in a nonpolitical, nonconnected family. When I went to Washington, I just thought, “If I can get a job on Capitol Hill, that’s cool. Then I’m going to move on.” The trajectory that I had is not what a normal press secretary would have. If you look back through Obama, and Bush, Clinton—the people who filled those roles are generally people that have been close to the candidate because they were on the campaign, they served with him when they were previous office holders. It was really not something that I thought was ever going to

be in my career trajectory. CAEN: How did it work? Did you meet with the president and get his thoughts on what you wanted you to say about certain things? Or did you just know exactly what he wanted you to say? SPICER: That was an evolving process. When I took the job, I met with all my predecessors. Not all of them, sorry, but I met with several of them on both sides. I was like, “Okay, how does this work on a daily basis? When do you talk to the president? How much feedback do you get?” I thought, “Okay, I got this.” We had done mock sessions; I’d been in Washington a long time, and I’d been around the process. So early on I did what had traditionally been the case. You would sit down with the subject matter experts, whether it’s National Security Council, National Economic Council, Office of Legislative Affairs, and say, “What’s our position on this? Where are we on this?” I found very quickly that the president [said], “If you’re going to state something [about] what I believe, . . . you need to come talk to me. If you don’t, then don’t say this is our position. Because I want to make that decision, not some head of office, or agency, or subject matter expert. You can come run it by me and say, ‘This is what your team suggests, what do you think?’” He in particular really cared about the exact words and phrases that were used, which was just not something that had been not only traditionally the case, frankly, but also throughout my career—generally speaking, you develop the comfort level with a principle or a cause or an institution that I had worked for, you kind of knew what you were free to say or communicate. CAEN: Did you ever say no? Or get direction and then go out and say, “I’m not going to do it.” SPICER: There were times when I would say, “Look, that’s unsustainable or untenable, because of the following. . . .” We would go back and forth and sometimes come to a point where I would say, “Look, we just need to say it in this way or we’re going to . . . .” and what happened more often than not is that he would say, “Just say, ‘The president believes the following.’ Or ‘The president

views the situation as such.’” CAEN: That way it’s not Sean Spicer‘s beliefs. SPICER: Right. Frankly, the job of a spokesman isn’t to tell you what they’re supposed to think. It’s to say, “Hey, in lieu of them being present, I will communicate their views and beliefs on a particular subject.” I think a lot of times, people didn’t necessarily like or believe what he was saying, and say, “Therefore it’s your fault.” I get that, but my job and any spokesman’s job isn’t to get in the way of communicating directly what they believe. CAEN: There was the issue with the president tweeting that President Obama had bugged Trump Tower. You said a lot of “the president believes“ in response to those questions. That was a little dicey. Does the president need a press secretary? He seems to do a pretty decent job. SPICER: There’s a lot of aspects to the job. There is a coordination aspect, a logistical aspect, and then there’s a lot of things that go on off-camera on a daily basis, where they might have a question about a budget issue, or personnel announcement, a policy roll-out, that’s not necessarily [a matter of ] what he thinks. CAEN: You used to work for the trade representative. In that capacity, you promoted the Trans-Pacific Partnership. Then [as White House press secretary] you had to go out and say, “Actually this is dead for American people. The president is pulling out of that.” You gave that as an example of a time when you had to put your own opinion aside and give the president’s perspective. Were there any other times? Or any other subjects? SPICER SPICER: Look, again, I think I’ve not worked for an individual that I’ve ever agreed with 100 percent. I don’t think that there’s many people that can say, when they go to work every day, unless they work for themselves, that they [agree 100 percent with their boss]. I’m not trying to put you in a bad position, but I guarantee you that at some point there’s a story [at CBS] where you said like, “I really didn’t agree with how we covered that, or I don’t know why we covered that at all.” I worked for President Bush; there were some policies and decisions that he made that I didn’t agree with. CAEN CAEN: Like what? SPICER SPICER: I mean, there were some spending issues, and just in terms of Medicare Part D, there were some roll-outs. It wasn’t all like, “Hey, this I’m 100 percent against.” I’m like,

“Why are we doing it this way?” But at the end of the day, that wasn’t my job. I have yet to meet any candidate that I agree with 100 percent. You’re not looking for purity, or you’re in the wrong line of work. CAEN: But, I’m just asking now that you’re not there and you don’t have to give that other opinion, if, aside from the TPP, there’s anything that you have to sort of swallow your [opinions]. SPICER: I think that, for example, there are some roll-outs that I talk about in the book that I don’t think were done effectively. In other words, there were times when I think that they had the right idea, and the wrong execution, or the wrong coordination. When you’re going to roll out big things, you have to look at the whole of government and say, “Okay, if you’re going to achieve this goal, you need to coordinate and sync the following things.” Sometimes for a variety of reasons, sometimes it was because we didn’t have the right people in place— CAEN: You’re talking about the extreme vetting? SPICER: Yeah. I don’t think how we handled that was done well. CAEN: But you had to say that, right? You had to go to the press briefing every day and say, “We have run this up the flagpole, it is totally fine.” SPICER: Your job is not to go there and do analysis and say, “Ladies and gentlemen, I just want to tell you where we screwed up today.” CAEN: That would be great. [Laughter.] SPICER: Sometimes being the public face of something is where you bear the brunt of the criticism. But that comes with the territory. CAEN: It doesn’t look very fun. SPICER: There were some good moments, and there were some more difficult ones. But I think to your point, I wrote in the book, there were plenty of days when I look back and say, “Hey, would I want to do over that day?” Or “Was I part of the problem, not part of the solution? Could I have used a better tone that day? Could I have been the better person?” One hundred percent. Part of the reason I wanted to write the book was because I’m not perfect by any means, I’ve made mistakes. I think that we need to, especially in this current culture, recognize and respect that there are people with views that you don’t agree upon, but that they’re very valid. And that they have a right to express them and to be heard. That too often we’re judging people,

we are condemning them without listening to them and respecting them. CAEN: You said that there were some days you’d want to do-over. Let’s talk about one. SPICER: No, thank you. CAEN: Your first press conference, you [dealt with the inauguration] audience issue. Give us some of the context of what’s going on. SPICER: That’s the big winner for do-over day. The follow-up question I get was, “Which part?” I’m like, “Let’s just do it all.” Part of what I try to explain in the book isn’t to excuse, it is to explain it, to say, “Look, there’s a mindset.” When I look [at recordings of that press conference], I’m like, “Who is that guy?” Because I don’t like the tone, I’m not someone who likes to yell, and get mad. Part of what people ask me is, “What was going through your mind?” There were two things that were happening. One—and this is kind of the overarching thing—was we had had this sense of negativity that was persistent, “We’re not good enough. Our ground game was horrible. Hillary’s digital program was better.” When we would sit there and have these things throughout the campaign, we would have a conversation with reporters and pundits and say, “Hey, look, let’s sit down and have a conversation about what we’re doing.” We would immediately be dismissed. “You can’t win this state. Your ground game is horrible. She has 1,000 people in Brooklyn.” It was just over and over again. The president gets sworn in. Go down to the White House, and he says, “Let’s show the American people I’m getting down to work, doing their agenda, signing a series of initial executive orders and actions.” We bring the press corps into the White House, into the Oval Office to do what they call pool spray, which is when a representative group of the media [is brought in to] witness everything he does. Pool comes in, president here, “I’m doing this, getting down to work.” Twenty minutes later I’m getting this [claim that] the bust of Martin Luther King has been removed from the Oval Office. People are rushing to the Oval Office, taking pictures; it wasn’t removed. I go back and I’d sit down with the pool, I’m like, “What are you guys doing?” Like, “He’s here, your job is to kind of report what he’s doing. Here’s the color in the room.” “There is a bust

that apparently somebody was blocking.” I’m like, “That’s the mentality, really? Not what he’s doing. Not who was there. Not the atmosphere. But what you got wrong?” That’s what’s going through our head now, it’s like, you’ve got to be kidding. This is how we’re starting this administration, frankly with a racially inflammatory accusation that the president did this thing? Then we get this update: apparently someone was blocking our view [of the bust], which would’ve been behind him, meaning that it wasn’t, “Hey, what’s going on at the Resolute desk? Who’s in the room?” It was literally trying to figure out “What can I get you on?” Okay. The president wakes up the next day and he turns on the television, calls me up, he’s like, “What’s going on?” Now they’re talking about, “Hey, there weren’t that many people there.” I’m like, “Oh my God.” Again, I’m not excusing, I’m explaining, which is just to say understand the mindset, which is we’ve now done all this. You want to critique the speech, you want to talk about the agenda, I get it. But it’s like nitpick, nitpick, nitpick about here’s what you don’t have, here’s what you did wrong. It’s the Saturday of a threeday weekend. All these federal employees have gone busting their hump to get the inauguration, there weren’t a ton of them [going to] work on a Saturday morning. How do I figure out how to construct something? I start getting emails from folks like, “What was your web traffic like? How many people were watching this live?” Now the kicker is I’m like, “I’m on safe ground, be-

cause a lot of these platforms didn’t even exist eight years ago, therefore it’s so obvious, like Snapchat, and all the things that people in this part of the country invented didn’t exist.” I’m thinking, “Okay, I can start talking about audiences, and kind of divert this a little from the number of people in the mall.” Again, not the strongest argument or best case, but the goal was to figure out a way to say, “Hey look, this is silly. Let’s talk about excitement, enthusiasm, people watching it in different ways instead of focusing on it.” I walked back into my office and the press briefing room is literally like 20 feet from the Oval Office. I walk back in, I sit at my desk, the phone rings. “The president is on the phone for you.” I’m like, “Hello.” I’m thinking, “Attaboy,” right? He is like, “What was that?” I’m like, “What do you mean? I went in tough.” He’s like, “That was horrible. What were you thinking?” I’m going, “Oh my god. I don’t even have my ID. I’m done.” CAEN: You wrote, “It was the beginning of the end.” SPICER: No question. It was. Looking back from an analytical standpoint, I don’t think there’s any way that there was a means to recover from that. CAEN: I have a question for you, and I mean this earnestly— SPICER: This is good. CAEN: I’ve had 18 months. SPICER: Can we get Melissa a glass of wine? CAEN: Yes, about the crowd size. You won; why didn’t you act like it? Why were you

THE COMMO N WE AL TH

on a scavenger hunt for how many people rode the metro? Who cares? Strut up to the microphone and say, “We’re grateful for who was here.” SPICER: I wish you had been with me. You’re right, I think we should’ve gone out and kind of dismissed it. Yes, I’ve replayed that day in my head more times than you can imagine. CAEN: You write that when you sat down to write your resignation letter, you changed the date to July 21st from mid-May. So you had already started drafting your letter in mid-May. Why? SPICER: To the point that we made a minute ago, from day one, I knew that it started off poorly. I have an entire chapter in the book that is basically like all of these memes that started to come up. For good or bad, sometimes intentional, sometimes unintentional, well-deserved or not, I became the story too often. CAEN: I have three letters here, I think you know what they are: S-N-L. Speaking of becoming the story, that must have been very surreal. Tell us about how you found out that was a thing. SPICER: This has been fun. CAEN: Next we’re going to talk about your trip to the dentist. SPICER: Saturday nights were kind of the night that my wife and I could catch up and just talk, have dinner, whatever. She goes to bed, I go to bed just 10, 15 minutes after she does. She wakes up, we’re getting the

kids ready to go to church. Like most Sunday mornings, it was kind of a zoo, they’re running around, we’re trying to get them fed. She’s like, “Did you see ‘Saturday Night Live’ last night?” I said, “No, I went to bed just a little while after you. She goes, “Well, you’re going to want to watch it.” We were running a little late, so I was like, “Fine, I’ll do it when we get back.” We get the kids in the car, drive off to church, we’re like in the middle of mass, and I’m trying to be very good about this, and I just take my phone, it’s like, “Tzz. Tzz. Tzz. Tzzzzzz.” I thought, “I’m being tested.” I was good. I walked out of mass, and I look down, and it was just like, “That was awesome, hysterical, dude. Oh, my gosh.” Whatever. My son’s like, “Can we stop by Dunkin’ Donuts?” I’m like, “No. We’re going home.” We pulled into the driveway, I run into the house, and I stand in our kitchen, we got a little TV in there. It wasn’t the cold open—the opening skit—so I’ve got this fast-forward thing going. I see like the C-SPAN logo and I’m like okay, this has got to be it. I just stood there and watched it. I was like, “Oh God.” There were like a million thoughts going through my head like, “Okay, it’s funny. It’s well-deserved. Oh my God.” Still, you’re like, “This is ‘Saturday Night Live’, and that’s me.” Again, I grew up mimicking skits from Chevy Chase, and Chris Farley, and you name it, Tina Fey. CAEN: But someone gave you Super Soaker, right? SPICER: I got a couple, yeah.

TRYING TIMES

Photo by Ed Ritger

WITH DAVID GERGEN

A Washington insider’s look at current politics. From the July 24, 2018, program “CNN’s David Gergen: Where Is America Headed?,” in San Francisco. DAVID GERGEN

Senior Political Analyst, CNN; Professor and Director of the Center for Public Leadership, Harvard Kennedy School

IN CONVERSATION WITH ROY EISENHARDT,

Lecturer, UC Berkeley Law School

ROY EISENHARDT: I’m proud to have sitting to my left David Gergen, who is an individual so familiar to us going back to the Nixon White House through the Ford presidency, Ronald Reagan and William Jefferson Clinton. Who did I leave out? DAVID GERGEN: Grover Cleveland. [Laughter.] EISENHARDT: Oh, I forgot him. I think all of us have a deep hunger for hearing some rational insights into what’s going on. Let me say one thing before I actually let David talk: We’re speaking on July 24, 2018. July 25, 2018, things may be very different. GERGEN: Five tweets. EISENHARDT: Yeah, five tweets. We have to qualify everything by saying we’re talking as of today on this. You travel around the country; you speak with people. What do you see as the general psyche or emotional attitude of America right now? GERGEN: There’s an old line that I think applies today: If you’re not confused, you don’t know what’s going on. We’ve entered a passage that I think all of us are finding difficult to understand. I wake some

mornings asking, “Am I still living in the same country that I thought I was living in?” Who are these people who believe so differently? It’s very clear that we’ve entered a period of enormous transition. David Brooks would argue that we’re going through a paradigm shift. At West Point now, with the young cadets, before they become officers, they describe to them the world that they’re going to find once they leave West Point, and they use an acronym: VUCA. It stands for “volatility, uncertainty, chaos and ambiguity.” And doesn’t that typify the world that so many of us find ourselves in, regardless of what field you’re in? We’re talking about politics and public affairs here today, but in almost any field [there’s] the sense of being uprooted and disrupted. Disruption is a favorite word now in business schools to help young MBA types understand how the world is turning upside down. This started long before Trump. It’s curious to me about what held us together before and why we’re not holding together now. I remember back toward the end of the Cold War—this is when the [Berlin] wall was coming down, the Soviet Union was collapsing, and Georgy Arbatov, who ran [the] USSR–U.S. think tank in Moscow, told some visiting Americans: “We the Russians are going to do something very dangerous for you. We’re going to remove your sense of an enemy. Your sense of an enemy is what kept you together.” Now, at the end of the Cold War, people are going in different directions. But it’s obviously more than that. The changes that have taken place in technology have been extraordinarily disruptive. For the most part, [it’s been] very positive, but for an awful lot of people, it’s been harder. [This is also] true in the world of trade and globalization. There OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

have been many winners, but there have been also a lot of losers. We haven’t had very good ways to solve the problems of people who’ve gotten hurt, and they have a lot of grievances. Increasingly, as we have dispersed as a people and sorted ourselves out—“the great unwinding,” as George Packer has called it—has meant that we don’t know our neighbors as well as we once did, and, more important, we tend to live in neighborhoods with people mostly like us. I think we have to understand that the world is changing, changing rapidly. It started before Trump, and frankly, I don’t think the end of Trump means the end of uncertainty, or the end of polarization, or the end of poisonous politics. We have come through tough periods before, and one of the great hallmarks of this country has been our resilience. I can recommend to you a new book by Jon Meacham, one of my favorite authors these days. He’s got a book out called The Soul of America, and it’s quite striking. In the early part of the book about the early days of the founding—I think most people appreciate that. But they’re long sections on times that we have not remembered as well as we should, such as the Reconstruction in the South and then the rise of the KKK and the Jim Crow laws that came with that were really difficult times, much more so than we understand, but we worked our way through them and came out on the other side. We worked our way through the Depression and came out on the other side. I think the looming question—and John Meacham’s book is pretty optimistic about where we’re heading, where we’re going—but the looming question is whether we are going to find that our growing multiethnic society is going to be able to hold together. We have our national motto, E pluribus unum—from many, one. There’s a big question whether we now have too much pluribus and not enough unum and whether we can bring ourselves back together. One of the overriding issues, perhaps the overriding issue right now in our public life, is whether our democracy is going to survive as we have known it. All over the world, there is a hunger now, given the changing conditions all countries are grappling with, there’s a hunger for new leadership and for breaking out of traditions. In some countries, that’s going pretty well, with a fresh leadership. I would argue, look at France and [President Emmanuel] Macron. He’s taken off very, very well. [German Chancellor] Angela Merkel is having to fight a rearguard action and is losing some of her authority in Europe. [Macron’s] emerging as the leader of the European Union. He formed a political party by himself, basically, out of nowhere and came and captured the reins in Paris. There’s this wonderful picture of the end of the World Cup when he’s standing cheering when the French win, and there’s so much dynamism and charisma at what he does. You look at that and say, no wonder the French feel so revived. He’s bringing interesting things to it. Argentina’s another country, which under [Mauricio] Macri, is coming along very, very well. I think what [Justin] Trudeau is doing in Canada is fascinating. More than half his cabinet are women. He has made empowerment the central theme and the central emphasis of his time in leadership there. He won’t go on any [public] panel that is not gender-balanced. That means one of us has to leave here, Roy. EISENHARDT: Yeah, I’m not sure which one. [Laughter.] GERGEN: Maybe it’ll be me. [Trudeau’s] very popular because of that. The agenda has changed a lot. A lot of the things that are on

THE COMMO N WE AL TH

people’s minds today are different, and equity, whether it’s gender equity or economic equity, has become central to what we are. In some countries, things have gone very well, but there are a great number of countries where this thirst for new leadership has actually led down the wrong path—the number of countries in which democratically elected leaders have taken their countries into authoritarian directions. There are several books out about democracy now and the health of democracy, the threats to democracy. The one I would recommend to you is How Democracies Die. It’s by two Harvard professors. It’s very accessible; it’s fairly short, but it has a big message. Essentially it argues: Up through the end of the Cold War, a number of governments toppled, but they mostly toppled at the hands of military dictatorships. Since the end of the Cold War, countries that have changed directions and are moving toward authoritarians are doing so at the hands of newly elected democrats, democratically elected people. These strong men have emerged. Europe is the most obvious example for any American. Whether you look at Hungary, or Poland, or especially Turkey—but now what’s going on in Italy. The alt-right movements that are building up are taking those countries in a much more authoritarian direction, and they’re shaking the European Union to their core. You can go on from there around the world, whether it be the Philippines or Venezuela; there are a dozen countries. Serious, major countries that have moved in an authoritarian direction. That is the big question—because America has not yet entered a more authoritarian period, but there are trend lines now in this country, which are the preludes to authoritarianism. The countries which have gone in that direction, almost uniformly, the democratically elected leaders have started by denigrating and dismantling and driving down the approval of its justice authorities, of the legal authority of the country. They’ve all been treated as “We can’t trust them”; they’ve been denigrated. There’s been an effort then, in several countries, to denigrate other forms of authority outside the realm of the strong man, such as the intelligence agencies, and all those countries are doing attacks on the free press. And what we see systematically is an effort to denigrate everybody who’s not the leader or within the circle of the leader. Does that sound fairly familiar? [Laughter.] We’re not there yet, but we should be very vigilant; we should be afraid, very afraid, of where all these things could lead. That to me is the serious challenge. The authors of How Democracies Die point out in their concluding pages that America is moving in a direction which we celebrate—I celebrate; living in San Francisco, you celebrate—and the diversity in our country, I find very appealing. I think it’s one of our great strengths. Bill Clinton used to say, “Diversity should not be our enemy; it should be our strength.” I believe that to be true. It is also true, as they point out in that book, that we are moving toward a majority–minority country. There’s not going to be any group which is a majority. Whites are going to be outnumbered by other groups—already in California and places like Arizona and New Mexico, but it’s coming now to the whole country. They make the argument that no multiethnic society in modern times has succeeded very well in keeping a democracy. So a lot of this depends on how we live with each other and how we listen to people with other perspectives and whether we’re respectful and empathic and understand this is a big diverse country and diversity should be our strength.

The Commonwealth Club organizes more than 450 events every year on politics, the arts, media, literature, business and sports. Programs are held throughout the Bay Area in San Francisco, Silicon Valley, Marin County, and the East Bay. Standard programs are typically one hour long and frequently include panel discussions or speeches followed by a question and answer session. Many evening programs include a networking reception with wine. PROGRAM DIVISIONS

CLIMATE ONE

INFORUM

MEMBER-LED FORUMS

Discussion among climate scientists, policymakers, activists, and citizens about energy, the economy, and the environment.

Inspiring talks with leaders in tech, culture, food, design, business and social issues targeted towards young adults.

Volunteer-driven programs that focus on particular ﬁelds. Most evening programs include a wine networking reception.

COMMONWEALTHCLUB.ORG/CLIMATE-ONE

COMMONWEALTHCLUB.ORG/INFORUM

COMMONWEALTHCLUB.ORG/MLF

RADIO, VIDEO, & PODCASTS Watch Club programs on the California Channel every Saturday at 9 p.m., and on KRCB TV 22 on Comcast. Select Commonwealth Club programs air on Marin TV’s Education Channel (Comcast Channel 30, U-Verse Channel 99) and on CreaTV in San Jose (Channel 30). View hundreds of streaming videos of Club programs at fora.tv and youtube.com/commonwealthclub

Hear Club programs on more than 200 public and commercial radio stations throughout the United States. For the latest schedule, visit commonwealthclub.org/broadcast. In the San Francisco Bay Area, tune in to: KQED (88.5 FM) Fridays at 8 p.m. and Saturdays at 2 a.m.

KSAN (107.7 FM) Sundays at 5 a.m.

KRCB Radio (91.1 FM in Rohnert Park) Thursdays at 7 p.m.

KNBR (680 and 1050 AM) Sundays at 5 a.m.

KALW (91.7 FM) Inforum programs select Tuesdays at 7p.m.

KFOG (104.5 and 97.7 FM) Sundays at 5 a.m.

KLIV (1590 AM) Thursdays at 7 p.m.

TuneIn.com Fridays at 4 p.m.

Subscribe to our free podcast service on iTunes and Google Play to automatically receive new programs: commonwealthclub.org/podcasts.

TICKETS Prepayment is required. Unless otherwise indicated, all events—including “Members Free” events— require tickets. Programs often sell out, so we strongly encourage you to purchase tickets in advance. Due to heavy call volume, we urge you to purchase tickets online at commonwealthclub.org; or call (415) 597-6705. Please note: All ticket sales are ﬁnal. Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to any program. Select events include premium seating, which refers to the ﬁrst several rows of seating. Pricing is subject to change.

HARD OF HEARING? To request an assistive listening device, please e-mail Mark Kirchner seven working days before the event at mkirchner@commonwealthclub.org.

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SAT/SUNDAY SAT/SUN

1/2 6/7

3 8

4 9

5 10

6 11

7 12

8/9 13/14

10 15

11 16

12 17

13 18

14 19

15/16 20/21

17 22

18 23

19 24

20 25

21 26

22/23 27/28

24 29

25 30

26 31

29/30

6 pm Tech for Good: Using Data Science to Build Social Engagement 6:30 pm April Ryan: Under Fire in the Trump White House

6 pmp.m. 5:15 WhatBlinding Pollsters Flash of the Learned in 2016 Obvious and 6:30 p.m. What It Means Ben Frankfor lin Circles FM 2018 6:30 6 pmp.m. Reading Changemakers: Movement Californians Book Leaders on Group Discussion Civil Rights 6:30 pm in Shane an Uncivil Time FM Bauer: The Business 7:45 of Prison p.m. The Future of America’s Political

12 pm Law Professor Aziz Huq: How to Save a Constitutional Democracy 6 pm From Climate Reality to Project Drawdown: Is This Happening to Us or for Us? 6:30 pm Socrates Café FM

12 pm My Voice, My Pen, My Vote 6:30 pm Week to Week Politics Roundtable and Social Hour 6 pm Alyssa Ayers: How India Is Making Its Place in the World 6:30 pm Ending the Silence on Domestic Violence

5:30 pm Middle East Forum Discussion FM 6 pm Two Degrees: Cities, Architecture and Our Changing Environments 6 pm What Do the Midterm Elections Mean for California and the Nation?

6 pm The Browns of California 6 pm Beyond the Koreas 6:30 pm Airbnb’s Chip Conley and Brian Chesky 7 pm Doris Kearns Goodwin

6:30 10 a.m. pmChinatown Rebecca Walking and Traister TourAlicia 6:30 p.m. Garza: Good Sallie and Krawcheck: Mad WomenThe Power of Women, Work and Wallet 7 p.m. Gopi Kallayil: Brain, Body and Consciousness

6 pm Unconventional Medicine 6:30 pm Wendy Sherman 7:30 pm Reid Hoffman

12 pm Republican Strategist Rick Wilson: Dark Politics in the Age of Trump 6 pm In Search of a Healthy Workplace 7 pm Manoush Zomorodi: Bored and Brilliant

6:30 pm Sesame Street: Changing Children’s Lives Around the World 7:45 pm Francis Fukuyama on Identity: How It Separates Us and Can Bring Us Together

San Francisco

East/North Bay

2 pm Commonwealth Club Weekly Tour FE 5:15 pm Longevity Explorers: Exploring the Future of Aging 5:15 pm Plan Your Fantastic Next Act 6:30 pm Ben Franklin Circles

2 pm Commonwealth Club Weekly Tour FE 6 pm The Environmental Documentary 6:30 pm Reihan Salam 7 pm John Chambers

12 pm Tucker Carlson 6:30 pm Humanities West Book Discussion: The Complete Prose of Alexander Pushkin

2 pm Commonwealth Club Weekly Tour FE 6 pm Conscious Business: How Leaders Are Embedding Sustainability Principles in Their Organizations

2 pm Commonwealth Club Weekly Tour FE 6 pm Mateship and Australia–U.S. Relations: A Foundation for the Next 100 Years

Silicon Valley

12 pm The Michelle Meow Show FE 6 pm California at War 7 pm Gopi Kallayil: The Happy Human 6:30 Francis Fukuyama: Identity and the Politics of Resentment

2 pm San Francisco Architecture Walking Tour 12 pm The Michelle Meow Show FE 12 pm Michael McFaul 6:30 pm Journalist Gustavo Arellano with Will Hearst 6:30 pm Left, Right, & Center Live

12 pm The Michelle Meow Show FE 12 pm Michael Beschloss 6 pm Fire and Ice 6:30 pm Venture Capitalist John Doerr

10 am Chinatown Walking Tour 12 pm The Michelle Meow Show FE 12 pm Max Boot

FM Free for members

12 pm China’s Crisis of Success FM 6:30 pm Rep. Barbara Lee: Celebrating 20 Years in Congress

12 pm An Unconventional Guide to Italy’s La Dolce Vita Culture FM 12 pm Steven Pearlstein: Can American Capitalism Survive?

5:30 pm Reliving My Hajj: Reflections Beyond Ritual FM 12 pm Julián Castro

FE Free for everyone

12 pm Saturday Up Top: Blue Angels Viewing Party

12 pm Saturday Ethnic Dance Festival: An Inside View

MO Members-only

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SAT/SUNDAY SAT/SUN

5 2

6/7 3/4

8 5

9 6

710

11 8

12 9

13/14 10/11

15 12

16 13

17 14 12 pm The Michelle

18 15

19 16

20/21 17/18

22 19

23 20

24 21

25 22

26 23

27/28 24/25

29 26

30 27

31 28

6 pm The Marshall Plan: Dawn of the Cold War

6:30 pm Socrates Café FM 6:30 pm Azeem Ibrahim: Inside Myanmar’s Hidden Genocide

5:30 pm Middle East Forum Discussion FM

2 pm Nob Hill Walking Tour 6 pm The Miracles of Microsurgery

6 pm Jaws: The Story of a Hidden Epidemic

6 pm The Transformation and Purpose of Capital 6:30 pm Jose Antonio Vargas

commonwealthclub.org/events

12 pm Election Aftermath: A Week to Week Special 6 pm The Case Against Sugar 6:30 pm Jeffrey Rosen: The Future of the Supreme Court and the Constitution

Meow Show FE 2 pm Club Weekly Tour FE 5:15 pm She Gave Up Family & Country for Love 6:30 pm Humanities West Book Discussion FM 6:30 pm Women in the Workplace

2 pm Commonwealth Club Weekly Tour FE 5:15 pm The Fundamental Challenge of Planning Your Estate: What’s Fair in Family Inheritance? 6 pm Paris Through Expatriate Eyes

12 pm Metabolic Syndrome and Mental Health 12 pm The Michelle Meow Show FE 6:30 pm The Social Implications of A.I.

2 pm North Beach Walking Tour 6:30 pm Holiday Toast to the 2018 Vineyards & Wineries 6:30 pm A Global Perspective on Healing After Trauma 6:30 pm The Truth Effect

12 pm The Michelle Meow Show FE 6 pm Just Giving

6:30 pm Widening the Lens: Revolutionizing Photography Voices 5:15 pm Dentists Organized for Veterans, The DOV Project

12 pm The Most Dangerous Branch

12 pm Inside the EPA: Your Health at Risk 12 pm Destroying Yemen FM 12 pm General Stanley McChrystal

12 pm Sebastian Gorka 12 pm The Last Watchman of Old Cairo FM

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

also look at underlying constituent values and culture in areas such as education, criminal justice and employee engagement. Audience TECH FOR GOOD: USING DATA members will be given the opportunity to SCIENCE TO BUILD SOCIAL receive an overview of their philanthropic ENGAGEMENT Erin Michelson, Founder and CEO, Sum- personalities, and a data-driven donation will mery; Author, Adventure Philanthropist be made on behalf of the audience cohort’s collective social impact values—a way to see Book Series Drew Payne, Founder and CEO, UpMet- social impact in action. rics; Founder, UHV Group; Former Vice SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, President, Payne Family Foundation Mikaela Rabinowitz, Ph.D., California San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6 p.m. program, 7 p.m. book signing • State Director, Measures for Justice James Lee, Partner, Jackson Hole MLF: Business & Leadership • Program Group; Adjunct Professor, Global Entre- organizer: Elizabeth Carney preneurial Management Graduate Program at the University of San Francisco; APRIL RYAN: UNDER FIRE IN THE TRUMP WHITE HOUSE Co-Founder, Knowmia—Moderator The Business & Leadership member-led April Ryan, White House Corresponforum is pleased to launch a new series high- dent, American Urban Radio Networks; lighting the use of tech for good. This inau- Author, Under Fire: Reporting from the gural panel will focus on how social sector Front Lines of the Trump White House companies and nonprofit organizations are Many in the press feel President Trump’s using innovations in data analytics, such as administration has decidedly waged war machine learning and artificial intelligence against them. The president and his former (AI), to foster social engagement. top aide referred to media as the “opposition The conversation will spotlight how we party” and took the unprecedented step of can use technology to measure and assess banning cameras from the White House press program outcomes and impact. Panelists will briefing. Forced to adjust under a new environment, veteran White House reporter April Ryan knows the chaos within the briefing room and the struggle to ask the diﬃcult questions in the face of unprecedented scrutiny. Ryan has been a White House correspondent since 1997 and recently joined CNN as a political analyst. In 2017, the National Association of Black Journalists named Ryan the journalist of the year.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 1

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6:30 p.m. program • Notes: Photo by Glenwood Jackson; attendees subject to search; special thanks to United Airlines; This is part of our Good Lit series, underwritten by the Bernard Osher Foundation

THE COMMO N WE AL TH

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 2 THE BROWNS OF CALIFORNIA: A POLITICAL FAMILY DYNASTY

Miriam Pawel, Pulitzer Prize–winning Editor, Newsday, Los Angeles Times; Author, The Browns of California: The Family Dynasty That Transformed a State and Shaped a Nation In Conversation with Roy Eisenhardt, Lecturer, UC Berkeley Law School Miriam Pawel’s panoramic history of California, from the Gold Rush to Silicon Valley, is told through the lens of the Brown family political dynasty. When Governor Jerry Brown finishes his fourth term at the end of 2018, he will have served as both the youngest and the oldest governor of California. His father, Pat Brown, served two terms starting in 1959. Almost half of the state’s modern history has happened under a Governor Brown. As Pawel weaves a narrative that is essential to understanding California and the way it has shaped our nation, she brings to life four generations of the Brown family. Pawel also offers correctives for those who confuse stereotypes and legends for history. She opens new vistas for readers only vaguely familiar with the state habitually viewed from afar with a mix of envy, awe, disdain and fascination. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6 p.m. program, 7 p.m. book signing • MLF: Humanities • Program organizer: George Hammond • Notes: Part of our Good Lit series, underwritten by the Bernard Osher Foundation; in association with the California Historical Society

BEYOND THE KOREAS: FIVE PROPOSITIONS ABOUT NUKES

Paul Clarke, Ph.D., Independent Security Expert; Adjunct Senior Defense Analyst, RAND Corporation; Adjunct Professor, Naval War College Steven Weber, M.D., Ph.D., Professor, School of Information and Department of Political Science, UC Berkeley; Director, Center for Long-Term Cybersecurity; Author, The Success of Open Source, How to Organize a Global Enterprise (forthcoming) In 1947, Republican Senator Arthur Vandenberg, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, backed the Cold War strategy of Democratic President Harry Truman,

April Ryan 10/1

For current prices, call 415.597.6705 or go to commonwealthclub.org

Doris Kearns Goodwin 10/2

asserting, “politics stops at the water’s edge.” Different approaches pulled the policy in opposite directions, but nuclear nonproliferation has been one of the signature achievements of American foreign policy and global governance ever since. That bipartisan ethos ended with the Cold War, yet the threat of that era—nuclear proliferation and nuclear war—remains. Join us as we explore propositions about nuclear weapons. Is the recent tension over nuclear programs in Iran and North Korea the beginning of a new nuclear threshold? What will the world look like if more countries join the nuclear club? The stakes are high, and, as recent events remind us, it is useful to review the future of nuclear weapons in world politics. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Max Thelan Boardroom, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6 p.m. program • Notes: In association with the California Historical Society • MLF: International Relations • Program organizer: Linda Calhoun

AIRBNB’S CHIP CONLEY AND BRIAN CHESKY: MODERN ELDERS AND MILLENNIALS AT WORK

tality and Leadership, Airbnb; Author, Wisdom at Work: The Making of a Modern Elder Brian Chesky, Co-Founder, CEO and Head of Community, Airbnb Julie Hanna, Executive Chairwoman, Kiva; Advisor, X — The Moonshot Factory—Moderator In an age where the phrase “cutting-edge technology” is redefined almost daily, new power shifts in the workplace are occurring on a generational scale. What does our future society look like when leaders in tech and business are getting younger and younger but life expectancy rates are at an all-time high? How can we build sustainable and forward-thinking workplace culture that lasts even during rapidly evolving times? Airbnb’s Chip Conley and Brian Chesky are high-profile examples of innovation and success on this front. At age 52, Joie de Vivre Hospitality founder Chip Conley joined forces with Airbnb’s millennial CEO and co-founder Brian Chesky to help improve guest experience and provide hosts with innovative standards in hospitality. At the time, Conley was an established giant in the hotel world but, in his own words, he “didn’t even have the Uber or Lyft app on [his] phone.” Despite his lack of tech proficiency, Conley was named head of global hospitality and strategy at Airbnb in 2013, and, since then, he has become an unexpected leader in recent efforts to merge baby boomer industry experience and perspective with millennial tech fluency and creativity. In his upcoming book, Wisdom at Work: The Making of a Modern Elder, Conley maps out his own experience with working at a tech company later in life and offers advice on how to break the traditional career mold. Join us for a candid conversation with Conley and Chesky as they discuss their unlikely partnership and what other companies can do to make the most of employees from all walks of life. The conversation will be moderated by Julie Hanna, executive chairwoman at Kiva and advisor at X — The Moonshot Factory.

Sutter St., San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6:30 p.m. program followed by book signing

DORIS KEARNS GOODWIN: LEADERSHIP IN TURBULENT TIMES

Doris Kearns Goodwin, Professor, Harvard University; Author, Leadership in Turbulent Times

This program is sold out. Are leaders born or made? Pulitzer Prize-winning author and historian Doris Kearns Goodwin draws upon her research of four U.S. presidents—Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin D. Roosevelt and Lyndon B. Johnson—to show how they first recognized leadership qualities within themselves and were recognized by others as leaders. Goodwin explains how no common pattern describes the trajectory of leadership. Set apart in background, abilities and temperament, these four men shared a fierce ambition and a deep-seated resilience that enabled them to surmount uncommon hardships.

SILICON VALLEY • Location: Mayer Theatre, Santa Clara University, 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara • Time: 6:15 p.m. checkin, 7 p.m. program, 8 p.m. book signing • Notes: Goodwin photo by Annie Leibovitz; this program is part of our Good Lit series, underwritten by the Bernard Osher Foundation

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 3 COMMONWEALTH CLUB WEEKLY TOUR

Our doors are now open! For the first time since our founding 115 years ago, The Commonwealth Club has a permanent place of its own, and we’re excited to share it with you. Every Wednesday at 2 p.m., we’re giving both members and nonmembers behind-thescenes tours of our home at 110 The Embarcadero. Join us for a complimentary tour of our beautiful new headquarters on San Francisco’s waterfront. At our state-of-the-art gathering space, which features a rooftop terrace with unobstructed views of the Bay Bridge and San Francisco Bay, you can learn about our storied history and the many amenities of being a Club member. Space is limited, so reserve your spot now to visit San Francisco’s newest—and oldest—cultural treasure at our new location. Feel free to call the front desk ahead of time for SAN FRANCISCO • INFORUM PROGRAM • extra availability.

Chip Conley, Strategic Advisor for Hospi- Location: Marines’ Memorial Theatre, 609 SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The EmOCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

Longevity Explorers: Exploring the Future of Aging 10/3

barcadero, Osher Lobby, San Francisco • to build the skills to communicate that vision. Time: 1:45 p.m. check-in, 2–3 p.m. tour You’ll end the talk with the start of your own

LONGEVITY EXPLORERS: EXPLORING THE FUTURE OF AGING

Richard Caro, Ph.D., Co-Founder, Tech-enhanced Life; CEO, Tangible Future Richard Caro will describe the Longevity Explorers’ most recent explorations. The explorers are a unique sharing, evaluation and ideation community made up of older adults (in their 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s) and their friends, families and caregivers. The presentation will include promising products the explorers have tried, ideas the explorers have been discussing related to improving the quality of life for older adults and some ideas for products we wish someone would develop. The Longevity Explorers program is an initiative enabled by Tech-enhanced Life. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 4:45 p.m. check-in, 5:15 p.m. program • MLF: Grownups • Program organizer: John Milford

PLAN YOUR FANTASTIC NEXT ACT

Kristi Royse, CEO and Founder, KLR Consulting What do you want in 2019? Is the curtain about to rise on your second act? Are you working on a big idea? Do you want to pivot in your career? Walt Disney once said, “If you can dream it, you can do it,” but you will need a plan and a pitch to communicate your ideas and inspire people. In this presentation, Kristi Royse shares steps for making your vision a reality and tips

THE COMMO N WE AL TH

strategic plan and techniques for crafting your elevator pitch.

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 4:45 p.m. check-in, 5:15 p.m. program • MLF: Grownups • Program organizer: Denise Michaud

BEN FRANKLIN CIRCLES

Join us monthly, every first Wednesday, for a 21st-century version of Ben Franklin’s mutual improvement club. One evening a week, for more than 40 years, the founding father discussed and debated with his friends the 13 virtues that he felt formed the basis for personal and civic improvement, a list he created when he was 20 years old. The virtues to which he aspired included justice, resolution and humility. (But don’t misunderstand Ben on that one—his explanation of humility was “imitate Jesus and Socrates.”) The Ben Franklin Circles program brings people together to discuss the most pressing philosophical and ethical issues of our time with the goal of improving ourselves and our world. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Max Thelen Boardroom, San Francisco • Time: 6 p.m. check-in, 6:30 p.m. program • MLF: Humanities • Program organizer: George Hammond

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 4 THE MICHELLE MEOW SHOW 10/4/18

Michelle Meow, Host, “The Michelle Meow Show” (Radio and TV) John Zipperer, Host, Week to Week Po-

litical Roundtable, The Commonwealth Club—Co-Host Join us as Michelle Meow brings her long-running daily radio show to The Commonwealth Club one day each week. Meet fascinating—and often controversial—people discussing important issues of interest to the LGBTQ community, and have your questions ready. See more upcoming Michelle Meow Shows at commonwealthclub.org/mms. SAN FRANCISCO • MICHELLE MEOW SHOW • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Max Thelen Boardroom, San Francisco • Time: 11:30 a.m. check-in, noon program

CALIFORNIA AT WAR

Diane North, Adjunct Professor of History, University of Maryland University College, Author, California at War: The State and the People during World War I World War I propelled the United States into the 20th century and served as a powerful catalyst for the making of modern California, expanding the role of the government and enlarging private citizens’ associations. Never before had so many Californians taken such a dynamic part in community, state, national and international affairs. Diane North not only writes about transformative battlefield experiences, but she also documents how daily life has changed for everyone on the home front—factory and farm workers, housewives and children, pacifists and politicians. Even before the United States entered the war, California’s economy flourished because its industrialized agriculture helped feed British troops. The war also provided a boost to the faltering Hollywood film industry and Continued on page 31

Walking in Peru The Sacred Valley & the Lares Trek May 17-26, 2019

ITINERARY Friday, May 17

Arrive on independent flights to Lima, Peru. Overnight at our convenient airport hotel.

Wyndham Costa Del Sol Hotel

Saturday, May 18 Lima / Cusco

Take a morning flight to Cusco and transfer to our hotel. Enjoy lunch on your own and time to settle in to the altitude. This afternoon enjoy a talk about archeoastronomy, and our welcome dinner.

Palacio del Inka Hotel (B,D)

Sunday, May 19 Cusco

This morning we take in the major archeological and cultural sites of Cusco, including the Cusco Cathedral, the Sacsayhuaman fortress-temple complex, and the Temple of the Sun (Coricancha), believed to be the most important temple of the Incan empire. This afternoon try your hand at a Peruvian cooking class or explore the San Pedro market.

Palacio del Inka Hotel (B,L,D)

Monday, May 20 Sacred Valley of the Incas

Journey to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, full of lush green fields and surrounded by striking mountain peaks. Explore the beautiful archeological site of Chinchero, where colonial buildings rest atop Inca foundations. Then choose between a hike following authentic Inca trails from Chinchero to the town of Urquillos (3 hours) or take a guided tour of Moray Inca Agricultural site and the Salt Mines of Maras.

Lamay Lodge (B,L,D)

Tuesday, May 21 Sacred Valley / Pisaq

The town square is often the center of activity throughout this region, but so too is the town market, and none is more alive than the famous market at Pisaq. Travelers can visit the market, or opt for a morning hike surrounded by amazing views of the Andes Mountains. Later, enjoy exclusive access to the isolated community of Viacha, where you will learn about its artisanal potato farming practices and enjoy a traditional “Pachamanca” meal, cooked under hot stones. After lunch visit the archaeological complex at Pisaq.

Lamay Lodge (B,L,D)

Wednesday, May 22

Lares Valley / Inca Sites and Villages We take a scenic drive into the mountains along the celebrated “Inca Weaver’s Trail” to visit the unique archeological site of Ancasmarca and on to Lares. Choose between visiting the traditional and ancient weavers’ village of Choquecancha, or opt for hiking amidst turquoise blue lakes and towering peaks to the remote village of Huacahuasi, where we spend two nights. This lodge, which is run in joint venture with the local community, aims to protect the cultural heritage and the environment, and provides an interesting insight into the evolving role of the Andean people in both the culture and commerce of modern-day Cusco.

Huacahuasi Lodge (B,L,D)

Thursday, May 23

Lares Valley / Exploring Huacahuasi If you’re in the mood for a cultural experience today, you can walk through the village of Huacahuasi and learn more about its heritage and daily activities, with a possible visit to a farmer’s home. The expert weavers and farmers will share their stories, each depicted in artful textiles full of traditional Incan symbols and imagery.

For those who want to go deeper into these remote mountains, challenge yourself with an all-day hike from the community of Quiswarani on the “Trail of 1,000 Lakes”. See herds of alpacas and llamas grazing on hillsides, and make your way over challenging mountain passes. (An easier hike option is also offered this day.)

Huacahuasi Lodge (B,L,D)

Friday, May 24

Sacred Valley and Inca Trails Today we embark on a spectacular drive over a high pass to the adjacent valley leading to the ancient town of Ollantaytambo, the oldest living city in Latin America. At the village of Huilloq observe a traditional sheep ceremony and then hike (or ride to) an authentic Inca trail to the archeological site of Pumamarca for lunch. Continue hiking downhill along dramatic Inca terraces or continue by car and explore the town of Ollantaytambo. This afternoon board the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.

Inkaterra Pueblo (B,L,D)

Saturday, May 25 Machu Picchu

At dawn, you begin your journey to Machu Picchu with a short uphill bus ride. As you enter the “Sanctuary” the morning sun rises over the iconic Sun Gate and washes the structures and terraces with resplendent light. Prepare to be awed by the imposing and skillful architecture of the Watchtower, the Temple of the Sun, and the royal Inca residences, among many others. Take an optional hike to Huayna Picchu, the iconic towering mountain often seen in photographs, for dramatic views that stretch from the Urubamba River valley to the edge of the Amazon Jungle. Enjoy lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge next to the ruins.

Inkaterra Pueblo (B,L,D)

Sunday, May 26 Cusco / Lima / U.S. Take a mid-morning train back to Cusco with a stop to explore the Ollantaytambo archeological site. Take an afternoon flight to Lima to connect with homeward bound flights.

(B,L)

WHAT TO EXPECT Participants must be in very good health and able to keep up with an active group of walkers to enjoy the trip. Most walks are moderate with some strenuous segments, and involve uneven gravel and dirt hiking trails. While trails are well marked, some include rocky sections and steep ascents and descents. Sturdy walking/hiking shoes are required; ankle-high shoes are highly recommended. Hiking poles are recommended. On average guests will walk 2-6 miles each day over 3-5 hours. Our longest planned hike is 5 ½ miles. Most walking activities take place between 9,000-14,000 feet, and the guides will encourage a slow pace, with frequent stops. Our lodges are located at elevations up to 12,600 feet. Travelers should discuss the altitude of this trip with their physician. One does not have to participate in every activity and walks are optional. If one chooses not to hike, there are options for cultural activities and visits to traditional communities. However, all travelers should be able to use stairs without handrails; stand for periods of two hours at a time during touring; and walk on uneven terrain, along narrow paths and up steps, especially around the archeological sites. An experienced guide will be with the group to provide interpretation as well as advice on the activities and the terrain. In order to join the trip travelers are required to purchase medical evacuation insurance and complete a health and medical form.

TRIP DETAILS Dates: May 17-26, 2019 (10 days) Group Size: Minimum 8, Maximum 16 (not including staff) Cost: $5,985 per person, double occupancy, $7,190 single room occupancy (limited) Included: Tour leader and guides; activities as specified in the itinerary; transportation throughout; airport transfers in Cusco; 9 nights accommodations; round-trip flight from Lima to Cusco; 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 8 dinners; wine and beer with welcome and farewell events; Commonwealth Club representative with 10 or more participants; gratuities to tour leader, local guides, drivers, and for all included group activities; pre-departure materials Not included: Air arrangements to and from Lima; visa and passport fees; meals not specified as included; optional outings and gratuities for those outings; alcoholic beverages beyond welcome and farewell events; travel insurance (recommended, information will be sent upon registration); items of a purely personal nature

(415) 597-6720 OR TRAVEL@COMMONWEALTHCLUB.ORG

Walking in Peru The Sacred Valley & the Lares Trek

RESERVATION FORM

Phone: (415) 597-6720 Fax: (415) 597-6729

May 17-26, 2019

NAME 1 NAME 2 ADDRESS

CITY/STATE/ZIP

HOME PHONE

CELL PHONE

E-MAIL ADDRESS SINGLE TRAVELERS ONLY: If this is a reservation for one person, please indicate: OR

I wish to have single accommodations OR

I plan to share accommodations with I’d like to know about possible roommates. I am a smoker / nonsmoker (circle one).

PAYMENT: Here is my deposit of $

($1000 per person) for

place(s).

Enclosed is my check (make payable to The Commonwealth Club) OR Charge my deposit to my

Visa

MasterCard

AMEX

CARD #

EXP. DATE

AUTHORIZED CARDHOLDER SIGNATURE

SECURITY CODE DATE

I/We have read and agree to the terms and conditions for this program

SIGNATURE We require membership to The Commonwealth Club to travel with us. Please check one of the following options: I am a current member of The Commonwealth Club. Please renew my membership with the credit card information provided here. I will visit commonwealthclub.org/membership to sign up for a membership.

PLEASE RETURN THIS FORM ALONG WITH YOUR DEPOSIT TO: Commonwealth Club Travel, 110 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94105 You may also fax the form to 415.597.6729

Terms and Conditions The Commonwealth Club (CWC) has contracted Mountain Lodges of Peru to organize this tour. Reservations: A $1000 per person deposit, along with a completed and signed Reservation Form, will reserve a place for participants on this program. The balance of the trip is due 90 days prior to departure and must be paid by check. Eligibility:We require membership to the Commonwealth Club to travel with us. People who live outside of the Bay Area may purchase a Worldwide membership. To learn about membership types and to purchase a membership, visit commonwealthclub.org/membership or call (415) 597-6720. Cancellation and Refund Policy: Notification of cancellation must be received in writing. At the time we receive your written cancellation, the following penalties will apply: • 91 or more days prior to departure: $350 per person • 90-1 days to departure: 100% fare Tour pricing is based on the number of participants. Tour can also be cancelled due to low enrollment. Neither CWC nor Mountain Lodges of Peru accepts liability for cancellation penalties related to domestic or international airline tickets purchased in conjunction with the tour. Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance: We strongly advise that all travelers purchase trip cancellation and interruption insurance as

coverage against a covered unforeseen emergency that may force you to cancel or leave trip while it is in progress. A brochure describing coverage will be sent to you upon receipt of your reservation. Medical Information: Participation in this program requires that you be in good health and able to walk several miles each day. The “What to Expect” outlines what is required. If you have any concerns see your doctor on the advisability of you joining this program. It is essential that persons with any medical problems and related dietary restrictions make them known to us well before departure. In order to join the trip travelers are required to purchase medical evacuation insurance and complete a health and medical form. Itinerary Changes & Trip Delay: Itinerary is based on information available at the time of printing and is subject to change. We reserve the right to change a program’s dates, staff, itineraries, or accommodations as conditions warrant. If a trip must be delayed, or the itinerary changed, due to bad weather, road conditions, transportation delays, airline schedules, government intervention, sickness or other contingency for which CWC or Mountain Lodges of Peru or its agents cannot make provision, the cost of delays or changes is not included. Limitations of Liability: In order to join the program, participants must complete a Participant Waiver provided by the CWC and agree to these terms: CWC and Mountain Lodges of Peru its Owners, Agents, and Employees

act only as the agent for any transportation carrier, hotel, ground operator, or other suppliers of services connected with this program (“other providers”), and the other providers are solely responsible and liable for providing their respective services. CWC and Mountain Lodges of Peru shall not be held liable for (A) any damage to, or loss of, property or injury to, or death of, persons occasioned directly or indirectly by an act or omission of any other provider, including but not limited to any defect in any aircraft, or vehicle operated or provided by such other provider, and (B) any loss or damage due to delay, cancellation, or disruption in any manner caused by the laws, regulations, acts or failures to act, demands, orders, or interpositions of any government or any subdivision or agent thereof, or by acts of God, strikes, fire, flood, war, rebellion, terrorism, insurrection, sickness, quarantine, epidemics, theft, or any other cause(s) beyond their control. The participant waives any claim against CWC/ Mountain Lodges of Peru for any such loss, damage, injury, or death. By registering for the trip, the participant certifies that he/she does not have any mental, physical, or other condition or disability that would create a hazard for him/herself or other participants. CWC/ Mountain Lodges of Peru shall not be liable for any air carrier’s cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a nonrefundable ticket to or from the departure city. Baggage and personal effects are at all times the sole responsibility of the traveler. Reasonable changes in the itinerary may be made where deemed advisable for the comfort and well-being of the passengers. CST: 2096889-40

For current prices, call 415.597.6705 or go to commonwealthclub.org

Continued from page 26 reversing that equation. He holds that what we truly deserve is to be human, and that the key to happiness lies in being 100 percent who we are, reveling in our authentic selves, especially if that means falling on our faces (which Gopi has done many times—but he's also had spectacular success). Kallayil explores the qualities that make us human and can help us be successful and hapSAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The py in both our personal lives and professional Embarcadero, Max Thelen Boardroom, careers. increased the military’s presence through the addition of Army and Navy training camps and construction and research contracts. Most citizens embraced wartime restrictions with patriotic zeal without foreseeing the retreat into suspicion, loyalty oaths and unwarranted surveillance, all of which set the stage for the beginnings of our modern security state.

San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. checkin, 6 p.m. program, 7 p.m. book signing • MLF: Humanities • Program organizer: George Hammond

GOPI KALLAYIL: THE HAPPY HUMAN

Gopi Kallayil, Chief Evangelist for Brand Marketing, Google; Author, The Happy Human: Being Real in an Artiﬁcially Intelligent World Happiness is a multimillion dollar industry, catering to our deep desire to live a joyful life and to a belief that as human beings we deserve to be happy. Gopi Kallayil believes in

SILICON VALLEY • Location: Cubberley Community Theatre (near Montrose and Middlefield), 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto • Time: 6:30 p.m. check-in, 7 p.m. program, 8 p.m. book signing

FRANCIS FUKUYAMA: IDENTITY AND THE POLITICS OF RESENTMENT

Francis Fukuyama, Senior Fellow, Stanford University’s Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies; Author, Identity: The Demand for Dignity and the Politics of Resentment Diaz, Editorial In Conversation with John Diaz Page Editor, San Francisco Chronicle Today’s movement against marginalization is fueled by an unequivocal desire for the system to recognize and incorporate identity. However, identity politics has caused deep fragmentations in American society that are predicated on the belief that one group’s inclusion means the other’s exclusion. In his new book, Identity: The Demand for Dignity and The Politics of Resentment Resentment, Francis Fukuyama, best-selling author and renowned political scientist, addresses the issues of identity politics. Fukuyama argues that our connection to personal identities has disconnected us from universal understandings of human dignity. He agrees that identity is fundamentally democratic and is indeed a pillar of fledgling democracies. However, narrow identities can pit groups against one another and manipulate people’s ability to recognize or seek out mutually inclusive solutions.

ing • Notes: Fukuyama will also be speaking in Marin on Oct. 30

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 5 CHINA'S CRISIS OF SUCCESS

William Overholt, Ph.D., Senior Research Fellow, Mossavar-Rahmani Center for Business and Government at Harvard Kennedy School; Former Director, RAND Corporation’s Center for Asia Paciﬁc Policy; Author, China's Crisis of Success William Overholt, the author who originally predicted China's rise, now believes that China's future is uncertain. Like an entrepreneur whose business has grown so complex that it needs restructuring, China's success now requires economic and political transformation. Overholt's analysis of China's situation and of President Xi Jinping’s role departs sharply from the conventional wisdom. Come join us for a discussion on China’s future. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 11:30 a.m. check-in, noon program, 1 p.m. book signing • MLF: International Relations • Program organizer: Linda Calhoun

REP. BARBARA LEE: CELEBRATING 20 YEARS IN CONGRESS

Barbara Lee, U.S. Representative for District 13 (D-CA) Congresswoman Barbara Lee has spent 20 years representing Oakland and the East Bay in Congress. First elected as U.S. representative for California’s 9th (now 13th) congressional district in 1998, she has enjoyed a storied career, including stints within the California State Assembly and State Senate. Throughout her career, Lee has advocated for LGBTQ rights, minority rights, women's rights and an end to the cycle of poverty. Most notably, she was the lone vote against the war on terror, which was lauded by the anti-war community. Today, she serves on the House Appropriations Committee and the House SAN FRANCISCO • Location: Committee on the Budget, and she previous110 The Embarcadero, ly served as chair of the Congressional Black Taube Family Audito- Caucus. rium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6:30 p.m. program, 7:30 program p.m. book sign-

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6:30 p.m. program • Notes: Attendees subject to search

Barbara Lee 10/5

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 6 UP TOP: BLUE ANGELS VIEWING PARTY

Come watch the Blue Angels from above the crowds on The Commonwealth Club’s private rooftop terrace, located on the historic Embarcadero. Join the Club and our expert volunteers for a special Saturday fundraising event; enjoy live music, substantial appetizers and a cash bar. Take advantage of the Club’s prime location with unobstructed views of the world famous Blue Angels. Enter to win round-trip, firstclass airfare through our silent auction, and maybe you too can take to the sky. San Francisco Fleet Week, established in 1981 and administered by the nonprofit San Francisco Fleet Week Association, is an annual public event that serves a dual purpose: to honor the contributions of the men and women of the United States Armed Forces and to advance cooperation and knowledge among civilian- and military-based humanitarian assistance personnel.

Monday Night Philosophy dives into 2016's political polling. Josh Libresco examines what the polls can teach us about the 2016 presidential election, even as American pollsters attempt to make sense of an election that was very different from anything Americans have seen in generations. Libresco will explain why it was especially difficult for pollsters to make predictions in 2016 and what techniques they use in an effort to understand how and why people vote the way they do. He will also offer insights into the November 2018 congressional elections and California's governor and Senate races.

African-Americans in white neighborhoods. The Color of Law forces us to face the obligation to remedy our unconstitutional past. The book has been heralded as a “masterful” (The Washington Post) and “essential” (Slate) history of the modern American metropolis. The Reading Californians Book Discussion Group meets the first Monday every other month at The Commonwealth Club’s new building to discuss the California Book Awards’ gold and silver medal winners.

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Max Thelan Board Room, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6 p.m. program • MLF: Reading Californians SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Em- • Program organizer: Betty Bullock barcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, SHANE BAUER: 6 p.m. program • MLF: Humanities • Pro- THE BUSINESS OF PRISON gram organizer: George Hammond Shane Bauer, Senior Reporter, Mother

Jones

READING CALIFORNIANS BOOK In 2014, Mother Jones journalist Shane DISCUSSION GROUP: THE COLOR OF Bauer made national headlines when he went not-so-undercover as a guard at Winn CorrecLAW, BY RICHARD ROTHSTEIN

We will be discussing the gold medal winner for nonfiction: The Color of Law: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America by Richard Rothstein. This book offers a timely and forceful argument on how federal, state and local governments gave rise to and reinforced neighborhood segregation. Rothstein describes how the American govMONDAY, OCTOBER 8 ernment systematically imposed residential WHAT POLLSTERS LEARNED IN 2016 segregation with undisguised racial zoning, AND WHAT IT MEANS FOR 2018 public housing that purposefully segregated Josh Libresco, Marketing Researcher; previously mixed communities, subsidies for Political Pollster; Executive Vice Presi- builders to create whites-only suburbs, tax dent, OSR Group exemptions for institutions that enforced segPrior to this November's midterm elections, regation, and support for violent resistance to SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Kaiser Permanente Rooftop Terrace, San Francisco • Time: 11:30 checkin, 12–4 p.m. program • Notes: Contact Kate Steffy (ksteﬀy@commonwealthclub. org) for any questions regarding this event.

tional Center, a private prison in Louisiana. He used his real name, and due to lack of any real background checks, remained employed for four months. In that short time, Bauer witnessed firsthand the horrific conditions both prisoners and guards faced at the hands of the billion-dollar private prison industry and wrote an exposé that became Mother Jones’ most read piece of all time. He argues that the private prison system is rarely held accountable for the atrocities that happen quietly within its concrete walls. Join Bauer as he discusses his unique experience, the for-profit prison industry’s past and present in American history, and the state of justice at that intersection of our legal system, capitalism and mass incarceration.

SAN FRANCISCO • INFORUM PROGRAM • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6:30 p.m. program followed by book signing

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9 REBECCA TRAISTER AND ALICIA GARZA: GOOD AND MAD WOMEN

Rebecca Traister, Author, Good and Mad (forthcoming) and All the Single Ladies; Writer, New York and The Cut Alicia Garza, Principal, Black Futures Lab; Strategy and Partnership Director, National Domestic Workers Alliance; Co-Founder, Black Lives Matter

THE COMMO N WE AL TH

Up Top: Blue Angels Viewing Party 10/6

For current prices, call 415.597.6705 or go to commonwealthclub.org

From #MeToo in Hollywood to the women's marches across the country, women’s anger and rage has been at the center of major cultural shifts and, more important, has brought to light how far society has come and how far it has left to go. Cultural depictions of women are often framed around emotion, and anger has especially sparked national conversations across politics, news, television and literature in recent years. Join Rebecca Traister, journalist and author of Good and Mad, and Alicia Garza, co-founder of the Black Lives Matter movement, as they dissect these portrayals of emotion and trace them throughout social movements in U.S. history. They will discuss the immense power that comes with mobilizing “angry” women despite double standards, and they will explore how indignation is perceived differently depending on who is exerting it and who is experiencing it—a crucial difference in today’s political climate.

5:30 pm check-in, 6:30 program followed by book signing

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 10 COMMONWEALTH CLUB WEEKLY TOUR

Our doors are now open! For the first time since our founding 115 years ago, The Commonwealth Club has a permanent place of its own, and we’re excited to share it with you. Every Wednesday at 2 p.m., we’re giving both members and nonmembers behind-thescenes tours of our home at 110 The Embarcadero. Join us for a complimentary tour of our beautiful new headquarters on San Francisco’s waterfront. At our state-of-the-art gathering space, which features a rooftop terrace with unobstructed views of the Bay Bridge and San Francisco Bay, you can learn about our storied history and the many amenities of being a Club member. Space is limited, so reserve your SAN FRANCISCO • INFORUM PROGRAM spot now to visit San Francisco’s newest—and • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Taube oldest—cultural treasure at our new location. Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: Feel free to call the front desk ahead of time for extra availability. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Osher Lobby, San Francisco • Time: 1:45 p.m. check-in, 2–3 p.m. tour

THE ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENTARY: CINEMA ACTIVISM IN THE 21ST CENTURY

John Duvall Duvall, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Communications and Media Studies, Dominican University of California John Duvall will provide a survey of the themes, genres and production/distribution strategies of recently acclaimed environmental documentaries screened in theaters, at film festivals, on PBS and on educational cable television channels. Duvall has an MFA in cinema production from the University of Southern California and a doctorate in transformative studies from the California Institute of Integral Studies. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6 p.m. program, program 7 p.m. book signing • MLF: Environment & Natural Resources • Program organizer: Ann Clark Reihan Salam 10/10

REIHAN SALAM: THE CASE AGAINST OPEN BORDERS

Reihan Salam, Executive Editor, National Review; Policy Fellow, National Review Institute; Author, Melting Pot or Civil War? A Son of Immigrants Makes the Case Against Open Borders Immigration policy has long divided America and continues to be one of the country’s biggest issues. Substantive discussion gets sidelined by predispositions that people hold for their opposition. Movements to restrict immigration are assumed to be reinforced by cruel, racist and nativist intentions. However, Reihan Salam, executive editor of National Review and the son of two Bangladeshi immigrants, delivers his considerate argument against open borders. In his book Melting Pot or Civil War?, Salam argues that uncontrolled immigration simply reorganizes low-skilled immigrants into immobile social and economic classes. The melting pot ideal is overshadowed by the reality of a declining demand for less-skilled labor and gentrification of low-income neighborhoods. Ultimately, he believes an immigration policy based on open border principles will create a new ethnic underclass and stimulate racial segregation. Join Salam for a stirring conversation beyond the partisan stereotypes that surround immigration policy and why he believes a rethink of policy will help America. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 6 p.m. check-in, 7 p.m. program, 8 p.m. book signing • Notes: Attendees subject to search

JOHN CHAMBERS: LESSONS FOR LEADERSHIP IN A STARTUP WORLD

John Chambers, Former Chairman Emeritus and CEO, Cisco Systems; Founder and CEO, JC2 Ventures; Author, Connecting the Dots: Lessons for Leadership in a Startup World Widely recognized as an innovator, an industry leader and one of the world’s best CEOs, John Chambers shares his unique strategies for winning in a digital world. From his early challenges with dyslexia to some of his bold decisions as the leader of a multibillion-dollar tech company, Chambers offers valuable insights and tools for entrepreneurs. After spending more than 25 years at Cisco, Chambers is now investing and mentoring a new generation of game-changing startups and serves on the board of Airware, OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

Left, Right, & Center Live 10/11

OpenGov and Pindrop.

SILICON VALLEY • Location: Villa Ragusa, 35 S. 2nd St., Campbell • Time: 6:15 p.m. check-in, 7 p.m. program, 8 p.m. book signing • Notes: This program is part of our Good Lit series, underwritten by the Bernard Osher Foundation; Chambers photo by Achille Bigliardi

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 11 SAN FRANCISCO ARCHITECTURE WALKING TOUR

Explore San Francisco’s Financial District with historian Rick Evans and learn the history and stories behind some of our city’s remarkable structures, streets and public squares. Hear about the famous architects who influenced the building of San Francisco after the 1906 earthquake. Discover hard-to-find rooftop gardens, art deco lobbies, unique open spaces and historic landmarks. This is a tour for locals, with hidden gems you can only find on foot!

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: Galleria Park Hotel, 191 Sutter St., San Francisco • Time: 1:45 p.m. check-in, 2–4:30 p.m. walk • Notes: The tour involves walking up and down stairs but covers less than one mile of walking in the Financial District; the tour operates rain or shine; limited to 20 participants; tickets must be purchased in advance and will not be sold at check-in; walks with fewer than six participants will be canceled (you will receive notification of this at least three days in advance)

MICHAEL MCFAUL

Gustavo Arellano. The former publisher and editor of Orange County’s alternative weekly, OC Weekly, Arellano is now the California columnist for the Los Angeles Times’ op-ed section, a sought-after essayist for numerous publications and a frequent commentator on radio and television. He penned the award-winning syndicated column, “¡Ask a Mexican!,” and is the author of Orange County: A Personal History and Taco USA: How Mexican Food Conquered America. In the winter issue of The Journal of Alta California, Arellano takes on the changes going on around him in Orange County as only Arellano can. Please join us as Arellano and editor and publisher of Alta magazine Will Hearst discuss changes in Orange County, the growing voice of Latinos in California politics and culture, SILICON VALLEY • Location: Williman and Arellano’s rise as an original and influential Room, Benson Center, Santa Clara Uni- voice on California life. Michael McFaul, Former U.S. Ambassador to Russia; Author, From Cold War to Hot Peace: An American Ambassador in Putin’s Russia Michael McFaul served as the seventh U.S. ambassador to Russia from 2012–2014 and is one of America’s leading scholars with unparalleled insights into the Russian Federation. He offers his thoughts on U.S.–Russia relations, election interference and President Trump’s relationship with President Putin. McFaul also has been barred by President Putin from visiting Russia and gained worldwide attention over the summer when President Trump gave consideration to President Putin's request to have the U.S. government forcibly make McFaul available for questioning by Russian security services.

versity, 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara • Time: noon program, 1 p.m. book signing • Notes: In association with the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics and Santa Clara University Alumni Association

THE MICHELLE MEOW SHOW 10/11/18

JOURNALIST GUSTAVO Michelle Meow, Host, "The Michelle ARELLANO IN CONVERSATION WITH WILL HEARST Meow Show" (Radio and TV)

Gustavo Arellano, Former Editor, OC Weekly; Author, Orange County: A Personal History and Taco USA: How Mexican Food Conquered America William R. Hearst III, Chairman of the Board, Hearst; Founder, The Journal of Alta California The future of political power in the United States may be determined by what happens in the congressional districts in Orange County, California, once a conservative bastion. Today, however, Orange County has become a very SAN FRANCISCO • MICHELLE MEOW different place than it once was, with a high SHOW • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, percentage of minorities remaking its poliMax Thelen Boardroom, San Francisco • tics and economics. No one understands the Time: 11:30 a.m. check-in, noon program changes happening there better than journalist John Zipperer, Host, Week to Week Political Roundtable, The Commonwealth Club—Co-Host Join us as Michelle Meow brings her long-running daily radio show to The Commonwealth Club one day each week. Meet fascinating—and often controversial—people discussing important issues of interest to the LGBTQ community, and have your questions ready. See a schedule of more upcoming Michelle Meow Shows at commonwealthclub.org/mms.

THE COMMO N WE AL TH

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6:30 p.m. program • Notes: In association with The Journal of Alta California

LEFT, RIGHT, & CENTER LIVE: DECISIONS, DECISIONS, PRESENTED BY INFORUM

Ana Marie Cox, Host, “With Friends Like These”; Columnist, Syfy.com Megan McArdle, Columnist, The Washington Post; Author, The Up Side of Down: Why Failing Well Is the Key to Success Josh Barro, Senior Editor, Business Insider; Host, "Left, Right & Center" and "All the President's Lawyers," KCRW; Contributor, MSNBC—Moderator INFORUM is excited to partner with KCRW as it takes its "Left, Right & Center (LRC)" show on the road—just in time for the 2018 midterm elections that will decide which party controls Congress. Join host Josh Barro and a slate of luminaries from across

For current prices, call 415.597.6705 or go to commonwealthclub.org

the political spectrum for a rollicking examination of the issues confounding our country. Imagine the most intensive, in-depth political analysis you've ever experienced—only more fun! LRC Live—because you have decisions to make.

SAN FRANCISCO • INFORUM PROGRAM • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 6 p.m. check-in, 7 p.m. program

MONDAY, OCTOBER 15 LAW PROFESSOR AZIZ HUQ: HOW TO SAVE A CONSTITUTIONAL DEMOCRACY

Aziz Huq, Frank and Bernice J. Greenberg Professor of Law, University of Chicago; Former Clerk to Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg; Author, How to Save a Constitutional Democracy Democracies are facing multiplying challenges—from structural changes to geopolitical shifts to cultural transformations. Though the United States remains one of the strongest democratic nations in the world, it is by no means immune to democratic backsliding. As the American public becomes more polarized on issues such as the freedom of the press and U.S.–Russia relations, will our institutions hold? Do the systemic weaknesses revealed by recent pressures on the U.S. Constitution require fundamental change in how the Constitution is interpreted and implemented? How likely is it that our democracy could erode? And what can be done to mitigate the risk? SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 11 a.m. check-in, noon program • Notes: This program is being held in partnership with the Jewish Community Relations Council; the Club is also a partner in the council’s Waging Democracy conference on Sunday, October 14—visit jcrc.org/news-events/events/waging-democracy for more information about the conference

School’s Board of Directors; Vice Chair, Board of Directors, Water for People This program will serve as a way-finding event that balances the realism of climate change with the practical solutions currently at work with the Buckminster Fuller Institute and Project Drawdown. The density and intensity of the presentations inspire action. The audience will be challenged to find their own voices and amplify the work of the team of experts already on the front lines of climate solutions. Amanda Ravenhill and Malcolm Walter bring their diverse backgrounds and experience to deliver a powerful and inspiring presentation that will engage and empower. Malcolm Walter, a graduate of Al Gore’s Climate Reality leadership training, will explore with attendees the current state of climate change and policy, as he asks: Can we change, and will we change? Amanda Ravenhill will present some of Project Drawdown's 100 most substantive, existing solutions to address climate change. Following a Q&A session, attendees will have the handson opportunity to learn more specifics from experts and work to identify individual contributions to this important work. The intention is to provide a message of hope and instill urgency.

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Max Thelen Boardroom, San Francisco • Time: 6 p.m. check-in, 6:30–8 p.m. program • MLF: Humanities • Program organizer: George Hammond

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 16 UNCONVENTIONAL MEDICINE

Chris Kresser, M.S., L.Ac., CEO, Kresser Institute; Co-director, California Center for Functional Medicine, Creator, ChrisKresser.com; Author, The Paleo Cure Kresser contends that we’re in the midst of an epidemic of chronic disease unlike anything human beings have ever experienced. It's destroying our quality of life, undermining the health of future generations and threatening to bankrupt governments. Unfortunately, our current model of “disease management" has not only failed to address the problem, it has contributed to it. In this presentation, Kresser will outline a new paradigm of health care—and health—with the potential to reverse chronic disease and reSAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Em- store the natural health and vitality that is our barcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, birthright.

San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6 SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Emp.m. program, 7 p.m. book signing • MLF: barcadero, Max Thelen Boardroom, San Business & Leadership • Program orgaFrancisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6 nizer: Elizabeth Carney p.m. program • MLF: Health & Medicine • Program organizer: SOCRATES CAFÉ Patty James

One Monday evening of every month the Humanities Forum sponsors Socrates Café at The Commonwealth Club. Each meeting is devoted to the discussion of a philosophical topic chosen at that meeting. The group's facilitator, John Nyquist, invites participants to suggest topics, which are then voted FROM CLIMATE REALITY TO on. The PROJECT DRAWDOWN: IS THIS person HAPPENING TO US OR FOR US? Amanda Ravenhill, Executive Director, w h o p r o Buckminster Fuller Institute Malcolm Walter, Former COO, Bentley p o s e d Systems; Treasurer, Presidio Graduate t h e Law Professor Aziz Huq 10/15

most popular topic is asked to briefly explain why she or he considers that topic interesting and important. An open discussion follows, and the meeting ends with a summary of the various perspectives participants expressed. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Camino Real, Palo Alto • Time: 6:45 p.m. Are you enrolled in Medicare but unsure AMBASSADOR WENDY SHERMAN: check-in, 7:30 p.m. program what to do during the Medicare open enrollIRAN AND LESSONS ON DIPLOMACY ment period from October 15 to December 7 Amb. Wendy Sherman, Former U.S. Un- WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 17

der Secretary of State for Political Affairs; Author, Not for the Faint of Heart: Lessons in Courage, Power, and Persistence In Conversation with Philip Yun, Executive Director, Ploughshares Fund From her early career as a social worker to serving as one of the few women present in international negotiations, Wendy Sherman has experienced politics and international diplomacy like few have. Among her past positions, Sherman served as special advisor to President Bill Clinton, North Korea policy coordinator and chief U.S. negotiator for the Iran nuclear deal. With the current administration’s shift in foreign policy, as seen in President Trump’s withdrawal from the very deal with Iran that she helped create, Sherman believes American diplomacy is under greater threat now than in any other recent time.

TUCKER CARLSON

Tucker Carlson, Host, Fox News’ “Tucker Carlson Tonight,” Author, Ship of Fools: How a Selﬁsh Ruling Class Is Bringing America to the Brink of Revolution In Conversation with Lanhee Chen, Research Fellow, Hoover Institution; Director, Domestic Policy Studies, Stanford University Tucker Carlson has been a conservative mainstay for the better part of two decades. As the host of Fox News Channel’s highly rated “Tucker Carlson Tonight,” he is an outspoken supporter of President Trump’s agenda. In his new book, Carlson says that America is run by “the new American elites, a group whose power and wealth has grown beyond imagination even as the rest of the country has withered. . . . They have total contempt for you.” Carlson adds that “Left and right are no longer meaningful categories in America. The rift is between those who benefit from the status quo, and those who don’t.” Join us for a rare visit with this provocative broadcaster who has the ear of the president and represents a significant constituency. Bring your questions.

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6:30 p.m. program, 7:30 p.m. book signing • Notes: This program is part of our Good Lit series, underwritten by the Bernard Osher Foundation; Sherman photo by SAN FRANCISCO • Location: Marines’ MeRalph Alswang morial Theatre, 609 Sutter St., San Francisco • Time: 11 a.m. check-in, noon proREID HOFFMAN gram • Notes: Attendees subject to search

Reid Hoffman, Partner, Greylock Partners; Co-Founder, LinkedIn; Co-Author, Blitzscaling: The Lightning-Fast Path to Building Massively Valuable Companies What is the secret to becoming the next Amazon or Facebook? According to legendary entrepreneur and investor Reid Hoffman, blitzscaling is the only competitive advantage that matters. Reid Hoffman describes why scaling up at a dizzying pace will ultimately blow competitors out of the water. He offers a wide range of advice for start-ups and established businesses on navigating the challenges and opportunities that every company will face. Hoffman was an angel investor in Facebook and Zynga. He currently sits on several boards, including Airbnb, Apollo Fusion, Microsoft, and Xapo and hosts the popular podcast series “Masters of Scale.”

THE MICHELLE MEOW SHOW 10/17/18

Michelle Meow, Host, "The Michelle Meow Show" (Radio and TV) John Zipperer, Host, Week to Week Meet fascinating—and often controversial— people discussing important issues of interest to the LGBTQ community, and have your questions ready. See more upcoming Michelle Meow Shows at commonwealthclub.org/mms. SAN FRANCISCO • MICHELLE MEOW SHOW • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Max Thelen Boardroom, San Francisco • Time: 11:30 a.m. check-in, noon program

MEDICARE OPEN ENROLLMENT, OCTOBER 15 TO DECEMBER 7: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Esther Koch, Founder, Encore Manage-

SILICON VALLEY • Location: Crowne Plaza ment; Medicare Aging Network Partner, Cabana, Mediterranean Ballrooms, 4290 El Centers for Medicare and Medicaid

THE COMMO N WE AL TH

Ambassador Wendy Sherman 10/16

each year? You are not alone. If you are on a Medicare prescription drug plan or a Medicare Advantage plan, this is generally the only time each year when you can change plans. Plans change annually, so you can’t assume that last year’s plan will provide the same coverage. Find out what you need to do now to make sure you are in the best plan for you in 2019. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Tonni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 4:45 p.m. check-in, 5:15 p.m. program • MLF: Grownups • Program organizer: John Milford

HUMANITIES WEST BOOK DISCUSSION: THE COMPLETE PROSE OF ALEXANDER PUSHKIN

Join us to discuss the prose of Russia's great-

For current prices, call 415.597.6705 or go to commonwealthclub.org

est poet. We will use Novels, Tales, Journeys: The Complete Prose of Alexander Pushkin, but any version of his stories will do. Pushkin's literary skill ranges from dramatic tales of love, obsession and betrayal (which Pushkin knew a lot about—he died young in a duel) to dark fables and sparkling comic masterpieces. His work includes satirical epistolary tales, romantic adventures in the manner of Sir Walter Scott, imaginative historical fiction and haunting dreamworlds such as “The Queen of Spades.” The five short stories of The Tales of the Late Ivan Petrovich Belkin are lightly humorous and yet reveal astonishing human depths. And some consider his short novel, The Captain's Daughter, the most perfect book in Russian literature. Discussion will be led by Lynn Harris.

or present without adequate context. Most will discuss how documentaries convey experiences that enlarge the viewer’s understanding. Focusing on Oil on Ice and Wilder than Wild: Fires, Forests and the Future, on which he worked as a screenwriter and writer/producer, Most will speak about representing climate change via stories for the screen. He will discuss how films aid campaigns that change the climate of opinion. Addressing the challenges nonfiction filmmakers face in showing arts’ complexities and unprecedented realities, Most will read from his book, Stories Make the World: Reflections on Storytelling and the Art of the Documentary.

Mediterranean peninsula, Italy has exerted an outsized force on the world, Western civilization and the popular imagination over the course of millennia. Explore the special alchemy of Italy and the “cultural DNA” that has made it not only influential but also beloved. Even the most sophisticated Italophile will discover fascinating new facts and insights. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 11:30 a.m. checkin, noon program, 1 p.m. book signing • MLF: Humanities • Program organizer: George Hammond

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, STEVEN PEARLSTEIN: CAN San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6 AMERICAN CAPITALISM SURVIVE? SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Em- p.m. program, 7 p.m. book signing • MLF: Steven Pearlstein, Columnist, The Washbarcadero, Max Thelen Boardroom, San Environment & Natural Resources • Pro- ington Post; Author, Can American CapFrancisco • Time: 6 p.m check-in, 6:30 p.m. gram organizer: Ann Clark italism Survive? Why Greed Is Not Good, program • MLF: Humanities • Program Opportunity Is Not Equal, and Fairness organizer: George Hammond VENTURE CAPITALIST JOHN DOERR: Won’t Make Us Poor

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18

MICHAEL BESCHLOSS: AMERICAN PRESIDENTS AT WAR

Michael Beschloss, Presidential Historian, NBC News; Author, Presidents of War In Conversation with Roy Eisenhardt, Lecturer, UC Berkeley Law School In times of crisis, how have America’s commanders in chief guided the country through conflict to victory? Presidential historian Michael Beschloss takes us behind the scenes and into the room with U.S. presidents. Beschloss illustrates scenes in striking detail, portraying how presidents have had to make difficult decisions, sometimes sending hundreds of thousands of men and women to their deaths. From James Madison and the War of 1812 to recent times, Beschloss describes how presidents struggled with Congress, the courts, the press, their own advisors and antiwar protesters.

MEASURE WHAT MATTERS

Now more than ever, it seems that the turmoil of American political and economic life leaves many Americans questioning the intentions of our most powerful leaders. Millions have been lifted out of poverty, and productivity has never been greater, but in the United States most of the benefits of economic growth have fallen into the hands of the richest 10 percent. As seen with his latest book, Can American Capitalism Survive?, Steven Pearlstein’s critique of capitalism falls in line with this trend. A Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist, Pearlstein describes his problems with current economic methodology and offers his solutions to save capitalism. His conviction challenges the status quo of today’s leading business ideas. Pearlstein argues that qualities such as trust, fairness and integrity are necessary in correcting these problems with American capitalism. Join us for an intriguing discussion on current American economics and learn more SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Em- about Pearlstein’s solution for better capitalbarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San ism. John Doerr, Chairperson, Kleiner Perkins; Author, Measure What Matters: How Google, Bono, and the Gates Foundation Rock the World with OKRs From Google and Twitter to Amazon, venture capitalist John Doerr has played his part in building and funding Silicon Valley’s most successful companies. Starting as a marketing manager at Intel, Doerr worked his way up to back some of the most successful global businesses and was appointed to the President's Council on Jobs and Competitiveness by President Obama. In his most recent book, Doerr delves into the systems that drive decisionmakers to consider the purpose behind their goals, leading to better results. From major CEOs to small-business owners, Doerr claims anyone with goals can use his methods to better achieve success. Join us for an informative discussion on goal making, success and Doerr’s personal experiences in the world of tech.

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 11 a.m. check-in, noon program, 1 p.m. book signing • Notes: Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6:30 SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Part of our Good Lit series, underwritten p.m. program, 7:30 p.m. book signing Embarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, by the Bernard Osher Foundation San Francisco • Time: 11:30 a.m. check-in, FRIDAY, OCTOBER 19 noon program, 1 p.m. book signing

FIRE AND ICE: DOCUMENTARY STORYTELLING AND THE CLIMATE CRISIS

AN UNCONVENTIONAL GUIDE TO ITALY'S LA DOLCE VITA CULTURE

Carla Gambescia, Author, La Dolce Vita University: An Unconventional Guide to Stephen Most, Writer; Filmmaker Learn about visual storytelling as an effective Italian Culture from A to Z What is it about Italy that draws us in? Culform of public education on crucial subjects that mass media tend to ignore, misrepresent tural superpower yet simply a mountainous

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 20 ETHNIC DANCE FESTIVAL: AN INSIDE VIEW

Julie Mushet, Executive Director, Ethnic Dance Festival Artistic Leaders This special Saturday afternoon program OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

My Voice, My Pen, My Vote: Writing the Life of Frederick Douglass 10/22

its rise for the United States and other nations. SILICON VALLEY • Location: Silicon Valley Bank Auditorium, 3005 Tasman Drive, Santa Clara • Time: 5 p.m. check-in and networking reception, 6 p.m. program, 7 p.m. book signing • Notes: In Association with the American India Foundation

ENDING THE SILENCE ON DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

will provide an introduction to the magic and extraordinary diversity of this only-in-San Francisco festival. From the first festival performances and neighborhood performances in 1978 to the Ethnic Dance Festival’s 40th anniversary shows at the Opera House earlier in 2018, this program will include conversations about history and a video of highlights of 2018 performances, celebrating the artists of San Francisco Bay Area companies. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 2:30 p.m. check-in, 3 p.m. program • MLF: Arts • Program organizer: Anne W. Smith

MONDAY, OCTOBER 22 MY VOICE, MY PEN, MY VOTE: WRITING THE LIFE OF FREDERICK DOUGLASS

David Blight, Professor of American History and Director of the Gilder Lehrman, Center for the Study of Slavery, Resistance, and Abolition, Yale University; Author, Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom To celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Frederick Douglass, David Blight has written a new, comprehensive biography of Douglass, an escaped slave, leading abolitionist and political activist, and one of the greatest orators and writers of his generation. Blight has drawn on letters and papers in a private collection that no other historian has consulted. He also relied on recently discovered copies of Douglass’ newspapers to bring us new insights into Douglass’ life and legacy. Blight portrays a man who was both courageous and generous, but he also reveals that Douglass did not take well to rivals challenging his position as the greatest spokesman of his race (all the while mentoring younger black writers and leaders). Blight traces how Douglass traversed a crooked path from radical outsider to political insider and digs deep into the mental life of this multifaceted intellectual,

THE COMMO N WE AL TH

Suzy Loftus, Former President, San editor and writer of short-form editorials, ex- Francisco Police Commission tended speeches and sermons, a memoir and Jackie Speier, U.S. Representative (D–CA) even one work of fiction. In conversation with Meena Harris, SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Em- Founder, Phenomenal Woman Action barcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, Campaign San Francisco • Time: 11:30 a.m. checkIn the 26 years since 1992 was triumphantly in, noon program, 1 p.m. book signing • declared the Year of the Woman, how much MLF: Humanities • Program organizer: have policies and perceptions changed in the George Hammond • Notes: Part of our pursuit of gender equality? Women and men Good Lit series, underwritten by the Ber- are speaking out about the harassment, innard Osher Foundation justice and violence, which remains pervasive in our society. In order to generate long-term WEEK TO WEEK POLITICS ROUNDsolutions with real change, many experts beTABLE AND SOCIAL HOUR 10/22/18 lieve we must address the systemic causes of Panelists TBA abuse. Join us for a panel discussion on the cySoon voters will go to the polls in one of the cle of abuse and how the women’s movement most-watched midterms in decades. Join us as can help end domestic violence. we discuss the latest political issues with ex- SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The pert commentary by panelists who are smart, Embarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, are civil and have a good sense of humor. Our San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, panelists will provide informative and engag- 6:30 p.m. program • Notes: The program ing commentary on political and other major is supported by Blue Shield of California news, and we'll have audience discussion of Foundation the week’s events and our live news quiz! And TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23 come early before the program to meet other smart and engaged individuals and discuss the REPUBLICAN STRATEGIST RICK news over snacks and wine at our members so- WILSON: DARK POLITICS IN THE cial (open to all attendees). AGE OF TRUMP SAN FRANCISCO • WEEK TO WEEK PROGRAM • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. wine-and-snacks social, 6:30 p.m. program

ALYSSA AYRES: HOW INDIA IS MAKING ITS PLACE IN THE WORLD

Alyssa Ayres, Senior Fellow for India, Pakistan, and South Asia, Council on Foreign Relations; Author, Our Time Has Come: How India Is Making Its Place in the World

Rick Wilson, Republican Campaign Strategist; Columnist, The Daily Beast; Author, Everything Trump Touches Dies Rick Wilson is a seasoned Republican political strategist and self-proclaimed infamous negative ad maker. His regular column with The Daily Beast is a must-read in the political community, and he’s widely published in The Washington Post, Politico and The Hill. In Everything Trump Touches Dies, Wilson brings his dark humor and biting analysis to what he calls the “absurdity of American politics in the Age of Trump.” Come hear this lifelong conservative’s views of a Republican Party that he says “has abandoned its principles” and what that bodes for the future of the country.

A rising India wants a seat at the table of global powers and is ready to set its own terms on everything from defense, climate and trade. Alyssa Ayres considers the role this ascendant democracy will play internationally, the obstacles it continues to face and the implications of SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Em-

For current prices, call 415.597.6705 or go to commonwealthclub.org

barcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 11 a.m. check-in, noon program, 1 p.m. book signing

IN SEARCH OF A HEALTHY WORKPLACE

Michiel Bakker, Director of Global Programs for Real Estate & Workplace Services, Google In Conversation with Elizabeth Carney, Chair, Business & Leadership Forum Google is known as a pioneer in offering workplace programs and services such as food, fitness, wellness, transportation and more. Michel Bakker, Google’s director of global programs for real estate and workplace services, will discuss how creating amazing workplaces and experiences helps attract highly sought-after talent and enables Googlers and Google itself to thrive. He’ll speak to how his team strives to deliver sustainable programs and services at scale, and he'll also discuss their approach to driving innovation in the workplace through the power of internal and external partnerships.

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Max Thelan Boardroom, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6 p.m. program • MLF: Business & Leadership • Program organizer: Elizabeth Carney

In Conversation with Jenny Dearborn, Chief Learning Ofﬁcer, SAP How many times a day do you check your phone? In 2015, Manoush Zomorodi led tens of thousands of her WNYC podcast listeners through a life-changing experiment to help unplug them from their devices, encourage boredom and jump-start their creativity. Zomorodi explores how to rethink our daily gadget use to live better and smarter in this new digital ecosystem. She shares practical steps to unplug and enhance our ability to dream, wonder and gain clarity in work and life.

SILICON VALLEY • Location: Cubberley Theatre, 4000 Middlefield Rd. (near Montrose & Middlefield), Palo Alto • Time: 6:30 p.m. check-in, 7 p.m. program, 8 p.m. book signing

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 24 COMMONWEALTH CLUB WEEKLY TOUR

resources and emissions. These leading firms redefine sustainability and also illustrate how to transform the culture. They are showing how to design and run a conscious business, a self-aware and purpose-driven organization dedicated to serving society and the environment. Audiences will come away with best practices for implementing impactful initiatives in their own organizations.

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6 p.m. program, 7 p.m. book signing • MLF: Business & Leadership • Program organizer: Elizabeth Carney • Notes: In partnership with Presidio Graduate School

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25 CHINATOWN WALKING TOUR

Enjoy a Commonwealth Club neighborhood adventure. Join Rick Evans for a memorable midday walk and discover the history and mysteries of Chinatown. Explore colorful alleys and side streets. Visit a Taoist temple, an herbal store, the site of the first public school in the state and the famous Fortune Cookie Factory.

Our doors are now open! For the first time since our founding 115 years ago, The Commonwealth Club has a permanent place of its own, and we’re excited to share it with you. Every Wednesday at 2 p.m., we’re giving members and nonmembers free behind-theSAN FRANCISCO • Location: Starbucks, scenes tours of our home at 110 The Embar359 Grant Ave., San Francisco • Time: 9:45 cadero. Join us for a tour of our beautiful new a.m. check-in, 10–12:30 p.m. walk • Notes: headquarters on San Francisco’s waterfront.

The temple visit requires walking up three SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Emﬂights of stairs; the tour operates rain or barcadero, Osher Lobby, San Francisco • shine; limited to 12 participants; tickets Time: 1:45 p.m. check-in, 2–3 p.m. tour must be purchased in advance and will not Manoush Zomorodi, Creator, WNYC’s be sold at check-in; walks with fewer than “Note to Self” Podcast; Author, Bored CONSCIOUS BUSINESS: HOW six participants will be canceled (you will and Brilliant: How Spacing Out Can Unreceive notification of this at least three lock Your Most Productive and Creative LEADERS ARE EMBEDDING SUSTAINABILITY PRINCIPLES IN days in advance) Self

MANOUSH ZOMORODI: BORED AND BRILLIANT

THEIR ORGANIZATIONS

Michael Kobori, Vice President of Sustainability, Levi Strauss & Co. David Lipman, Chief Science Ofﬁcer, Impossible Foods Navi Radjou, Author, Conscious Society (forthcoming); Winner, 2013 Thinkers50 Innovation Award; Fellow, Cambridge University's Judge Business School; Former Vice President, Forrester Research— Moderator Additional Panelist TBA Businesses are taking the lead on climate change initiatives. This panel gathers leaders at organizations that go beyond reducing their ecological footprint to developing breakthrough solutions to help reverse climate change and generate greater value with fewer Manoush Zomorodi 10/23

THE MICHELLE MEOW SHOW 10/25/18

Michelle Meow, Host, "The Michelle Meow Show" (Radio and TV) John Zipperer, Host, Week to Week Join us as Michelle Meow brings her long-running daily radio show to The Commonwealth Club one day each week. Meet fascinating—and often controversial—people discussing important issues of interest to the LGBTQ community, and have your questions ready. See more upcoming Michelle Meow Shows at commonwealthclub.org/mms. SAN FRANCISCO • MICHELLE MEOW SHOW • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Max Thelen Boardroom, San Francisco • Time: 11:30 a.m. check-in, noon program OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

MAX BOOT: THE CORROSION OF CONSERVATISM

tion about a party at a never-ending crossroads and the movement by people such as Boot to Max Boot, Senior Fellow, Council on For- reclaim the GOP in the name of conservative eign Relations; Author, The Corrosion of fiscal and national security principles. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The EmConservatism: Why I Left the Right When Donald Trump announced his pres- barcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 11 a.m. check-in, noon idential bid in 2015, conservative historian program, 1 p.m. book signing Max Boot thought he was watching a dystopian science-fiction movie. He couldn’t fath- FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26 om that the party of Lincoln, Roosevelt and RELIVING MY HAJJ: Reagan could endorse a reality TV star with no prior political experience and a laundry list REFLECTIONS BEYOND RITUAL Ejaz Naqvi, M.D., Past President, Islamic of controversies. After joining other prominent Center of Zahra in Pleasanton; Blogger, conservatives like David Frum, Rick Wilson Patheos’ “Ask a (Born Again) Muslim” and Ana Navarro in denouncing Trump’s canMichael Pappas, Executive Director, San didacy and subsequent presidency, Boot left Francisco Interfaith Council—Moderator the GOP. No longer a Republican but not a Ejaz Naqvi, author of The Three Abrahamic Democrat, Boot journeyed from a “move- Testaments: How the Torah, Gospels, and Qur'an ment” conservative to a man without a party. Hold the Keys for Healing Our Fears, will discuss While 90 percent of Republicans endorsed Hajj, the great pilgrimage to Mecca, the holiest President Trump’s agenda in the aftermath city in Islam. He will share his precious memof the 2016 election, Boot stood his ground, ories of the Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam enduring the criticism of his conservative col- and a once-in-a-ifetime, sacred duty demonleagues. Join us for this important conversa- strating Muslim solidarity and submission to Allah. He will share the lessons he learned for personal spiritual growth as well as for the benefit of society at large. Naqvi is a practicing physician and serves on the Board of the Interfaith Council of Contra Costa County. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Max Thelen Boardroom, San Francisco • Time: 11:30 a.m. check-in, noon program • MLF: Middle East • Program organizer: Celia Menczel

JULIÁN CASTRO: AN AMERICAN JOURNEY

Julián Castro, Former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development; Former Mayor, San Antonio; Author, An Unlikely Journey: Waking Up from My American Dream In many ways, there was no reason Julián Castro should have been successful. Born to unmarried parents in a poverty-stricken neighborhood of a struggling city, his prospects of escaping this circumstance seemed bleak. Yet he and his twin brother, Joaquin, did not let cynicism hold them back. Instead, they aspired to achieve the American dream despite unlikely odds. Castro’s success as the mayor of

THE COMMO N WE AL TH

San Antonio propelled him onto the national stage, where he was the keynote speaker at the 2012 Democratic National Convention—the same spot President Obama held in 2004. He then went on to Washington, D.C., where he served as the Obama administration's secretary of housing and urban development. His meteoric rise has many wondering if a presidential run is in his future. Join us as Castro tells the unlikely story of how he believes the American dream can still lift unlikely heroes, no matter one’s politics.

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 11:30 a.m. checkin, noon program, 1 p.m. book signing • Notes: This program is part of our Good Lit series, underwritten by the Bernard Osher Foundation

MONDAY, OCTOBER 29 MIDDLE EAST FORUM DISCUSSION

The Middle East Forum discussion group, which primarily covers the Middle East, North Africa and Afghanistan, has been meeting monthly for about 10 years. We are not a debate group. We discuss timely cultural subjects in a civil atmosphere with respect for others and their opinions.

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Max Thelan Board Room, San Francisco • Time: 5 p.m. check-in, 5:30 p.m. program • MLF: Middle East • Program organizer: Celia Menczel

TWO DEGREES: CITIES, ARCHITECTURE AND OUR CHANGING ENVIRONMENTS

Cole Roberts, Americas Energy Leader, P.E., Arup The Earth's temperature has been rising. To limit catastrophic outcomes, experts say we must limit warming to no more than 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Economists agree we will save trillions of dollars by acting early. But how do we act successfully? What is the plan if we fall short? Bridging climate science, design, psychology, politics and religion, we explore the practical steps to reduce global warming and to adapt to the inevitable, all the while improving the bottom line, beautifying our communities and increasing human health for all of us who occupy and shape our environment.

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6 p.m. program • MLF: Environment &

Julián Castro: An American Journey 10/26

For current prices, call 415.597.6705 or go to commonwealthclub.org

Natural Resources • Program organizer: Ann Clark

WHAT DO THE MIDTERM ELECTIONS MEAN FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IN CALIFORNIA AND THE NATION?

Lindsey Allen, Executive Director, Rain Forest Action Network Michael Mantell, President, Resources Legacy Fund Michael Sutton, Executive Director, Goldman Environmental Foundation, Moderator The 2018 election could change the balance of power in California and the nation. While the factors that have driven climate change and drought are on the rise, environmental actions, policies and agencies face rollbacks and cutbacks. The outcome of the November vote on candidates and ballot initiatives will likely have far-reaching ecological and social impacts. Our panel will discuss the present and future of the 2018 midterm elections and the environmental turning points ahead.

with the International Rescue Committee (IRC), won the MacArthur Foundation’s first ever $100 million 100&Change grant competition. This enormous grant enables Sesame Workshop and IRC to implement the largest early childhood intervention in the history of humanitarian response, targeting children and families in the Syrian response region, which includes Syria, Iraq, Jordan and Lebanon. The goal? To improve children's learning outcomes, support their vital intellectual and emotional development, and help them overcome the trauma of war. No mean feat, but the Muppets are up for the task. Join us for a unique look into Sesame Workshop’s innovative approach to supporting children and those who care for them around the world.

time, groups previously marginalized based on race, ethnicity, gender or religion are increasingly demanding equal recognition in society, setting up a clash in identity politics at a time when national unity is so needed. Now Fukuyama looks at the contrasting ways identity has become a potent new battleground in society and discusses the threat to society when there are such significant challenges to collective action and communication.

NORTH BAY • MARIN CONVERSATIONS PROGRAM • Location: Outdoor Art Club, One West Blithedale, Mill Valley • Time: 7 p.m. check-in and complimentary light hors d'oeuvres, 7:45–9 p.m. program • Notes: Cash bar available; Fukuyama photo by and copyright Djurdja Padejski

SAN FRANCISCO • INFORUM PROGRAM • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Taube WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 31 Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: COMMONWEALTH CLUB WEEKLY 5:30 p.m. check-in and reception (open to TOUR all), 6:30 p.m. program • Notes: This proOur doors are now open! For the first time gram is generously underwritten by The since our founding 115 years ago, The ComCanet Foundation

monwealth Club has a permanent place of its

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Emown, and we’re excited to share it with you. FRANCIS FUKUYAMA ON IDENTITY: barcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, HOW IT SEPARATES US AND CAN San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6 p.m. program • MLF: Environment & BRING US TOGETHER Natural Resources • Program organizer: Francis Fukuyama, Senior Fellow, Stanford University’s Freeman Spogli InstiAnn Clark

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 30 SESAME STREET: CHANGING CHILDREN’S LIVES AROUND THE WORLD

Sherrie Westin, President of Global Impact and Philanthropy, Sesame Workshop In the last 50 years, there’s a good chance you’ve watched “Sesame Street”—whether as an adult, a child or both—and that it’s shaped the way you see the world around you. Sherrie Westin heads up Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit educational organization behind "Sesame Street," and touts the show's unique approach to creating learning opportunities: “We're combining the power of popular media with our engaging, nonthreatening Muppets to enlighten young children. That's pretty powerful." With Muppets who talk about everything from autism to incarceration to refugees to personal hygiene, friendly fuzzy faces tackle important subjects for a young audience every single day in 150 countries around the world. In 2018, Sesame Workshop, in partnership

tute for International Studies; Author, Identity: The Demand for Dignity and the Politics of Resentment Frederick M. Dolan, Professor Emeritus of Rhetoric, UC Berkeley One of America's leading political scientists and theorists, Francis Fukuyama is back with a provocative new look at one of the most critical issues facing America: identity politics and, most specifically, its role in promoting democracy as well as undermining it through polarization. In 2014, Fukuyama wrote that American institutions were in decay due to powerful interest groups. Two years later, his predictions were borne out by the rise to power of a series of political outsiders whose economic nationalism and authoritarian tendencies he says threatened to destabilize the entire international order. These populist nationalists seek direct charismatic connection to “the people,” who are usually defined in narrow identity terms that offer an irresistible call to an in-group and exclude large parts of the entire population. At the same Francis Fukuyama 10/30

Mateship and Australia–U.S. Relations: A Foundation for the Next 100 Years 10/31

area on the important topics of nutrition, optimal daily habits and how to prevent depression and the cascade of dysregulation that manifests as the metabolic syndrome. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 11:30 a.m. check-in, noon program, 1 p.m. book signing • MLF: Health & Medicine • Program organizer: Patty James

THE MICHELLE MEOW SHOW 11/1/18

Every Wednesday at 2 p.m., we’re giving both members and nonmembers behind-the-scenes tours of our home at 110 The Embarcadero. Join us for a complimentary tour of our beautiful new headquarters on San Francisco’s waterfront. At our state-of-the-art gathering space, which features a rooftop terrace with unobstructed views of the Bay Bridge and San Francisco Bay, you can learn about our storied history and the many amenities of being a Club member. Space is limited, so reserve your spot now to visit San Francisco’s newest—and oldest— cultural treasure at our new location. Feel free to call the front desk ahead of time for extra availability. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Osher Lobby, San Francisco • Time: 1:45 p.m. check-in, 2–3 p.m. tour

MATESHIP AND AUSTRALIA–U.S. RELATIONS: A FOUNDATION FOR THE NEXT 100 YEARS

Chris Oldfield, Consul-General of Australia and Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner For more than 100 years, Australia and the United States have enjoyed a relationship— military, social and economic—unlike any other. From the World War I battlefields of France a century ago to the present time, when the United States remains the largest investor in Australia—the history of the two countries is inexorably linked. The countries are joined not just by common values but also by common challenges so that one wonders: where to for the next century? Over the last three years, Consul-General Chris Oldfield has taken the opportunity to engage and reflect on the issues

THE COMMO N WE AL TH

critical to the ongoing future of this vitally important relationship.

Michelle Meow, Host, "The Michelle Meow Show" (Radio and TV) John Zipperer, Host, Week to Week Political Roundtable, The Commonwealth Club—Co-Host Join us as Michelle Meow brings her long-running daily radio show to The Commonwealth Club one day each week. Meet fascinating—and often controversial—people discussing important issues of interest to the LGBTQ community, and have your questions ready. See more upcoming Michelle Meow Shows at commonwealthclub.org/mms.

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6 p.m. program • MLF: International Relations, Asia-Pacific Affairs • Program organizers: Norma Walden, Lillian Nakagawa • Notes: In association with the Australian SAN FRANCISCO • MICHELLE MEOW SHOW • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, American Chamber of Commerce Max Thelen Boardroom, San Francisco • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1 Time: 11:30 a.m. check-in, noon program

METABOLIC SYNDROME AND MENTAL HEALTH

Elissa Epel, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Psychiatry, UCSF Wolfram Alderson, CEO, Hypoglycemia Support Foundation Dr. Robert Lustig, Professor Emeritus of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, UCSF Dr. Natalie Rasgon, Professor, Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine Modern health means metabolic health. The main pathway to chronic diseases today is the breakdown of our finely tuned metabolic machinery inside, due to processed food, lifestyle and—mental health? Stress and depression have potent effects on our behavior and creating imbalance of hormones such as glucose, insulin and inflammation. Poor mental health contributes to the metabolic syndrome, a cluster of common maladies including a large waist, high lipid levels and blood pressure, breakdown of the balance between insulin and glucose, and the most invisible to all, a fatty liver. You will hear from four experts in this

TCHAIKOVSKY & BORODIN: RUSSIAN MUSICAL BRILLIANCE IN PERFORMANCE

Steven Machtinger, Attorney; Violist Performing With the San Joaquin Quartet Alexander Borodin (1833–87) was a famous Russian chemist who today is better known as one of the greatest Romantic composers of the 19th century. In the 1860s, he joined a group of composers called "The Five," who were dedicated to promoting a national music that was distinctly Russian, in contrast to the traditions that prevailed in Germany and Italy. The Five did not compose many symphonies or works of chamber music, which they regarded as alien art forms, but Borodin nevertheless wrote two string quartets of great beauty and charm. The San Joaquin Quartet will perform his String Quartet No. 2 in D, which includes as its third movement the famous Nocturne. (In 1954, Borodin was posthumously honored with a Tony Award for the Nocturne and other music that comprised the score for the Broadway musical "Kismet.") The program will conclude with the famous Andante Cantabile from Tchaikovsky's String Quartet No. 1.

For current prices, call 415.597.6705 or go to commonwealthclub.org

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6 p.m. program • MLF: Humanities • Program organizer: George Hammond

THE SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS OF A.I.

Tom Siebel, Founder and CEO, C3 IoT In Conversation with Alexandra Suich Bass, U.S. Technology Editor, The Economist If anyone can make provocative predictions about technology and its impact on business and our everyday lives, it is Tom Siebel. One of Silicon Valley's most successful entrepreneurs for more than four decades, he remains at the forefront of enterprise software, big data, cloud, the Internet of things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning—formerly at Oracle and Siebel Systems and, most recently, as founder and CEO of C3 IoT. Siebel explores the far-ranging impact that AI and digital innovation will have on every aspect of life and how this step function change in technology—fueled by AI and IoT—continues to disrupt critical industries from agriculture, health care, manufacturing, defense, financial services and energy.

Jim Estrin, New York Times Staff Photographer, “Lens” Blog Co-Editor—Moderator Since its invention, photography has always had a special role in shaping the visual narratives that help us make sense of our world. Not only do we record, share and understand life through images, but these images also galvanize individuals to act. While the impulse for visual storytelling is as old as humanity itself, the tools, storytellers and mechanisms for sharing visual stories are now dramatically different. More than ever, photography has the power to transcend barriers, spark dialogue and promote understanding. But who is telling these stories today, and how can we take action to enable people to tell their own stories, widening the lens of storytellers everywhere? Three extraordinary leaders in photography will discuss their groundbreaking approaches to using the most powerful communications tools of our time, concurrently creating provocative work on their own and exposing SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Em- diverse artists to opportunities to amplify their barcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San visual voices. Join us for a dynamic conversaFrancisco • Time: 6:00 p.m. check-in, 6:30 tion about the exciting possibilities of a more p.m. program nuanced and inclusive photographic lens to create a broader societal impact. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 2 Siebel will discuss the societal and ethical implications of AI, exploring both the dangers and the opportunities where AI can have the greatest impact. Given AI is being rapidly applied to virtually all societal domains, the urgency of working together to mitigate the adverse consequences has never been greater. Leading researchers suggest it is only a matter of time before rival states, criminals and terrorists use AI’s scale and efficiency to launch finely targeted and highly efficient attacks. In this rapidly evolving climate, Siebel argues that the benefits of AI are substantial, but the potential costs are significant. He advocates that the balance between the two lies in regulation, private and public sector collaboration, and a clear focus on issues such as privacy and cybersecurity to protect us—as consumers and citizens. Join one of technology’s most preeminent leaders for a night of insightful conversation on the shaping of society by the exponential—and unstoppable—rise of AI.

WIDENING THE LENS: REVOLUTIONIZING PHOTOGRAPHY VOICES

Shahidul Alam, Founder; Drik and Majority World Agencies, The Pathshala School and the Chobi Mela Festival; Photographer; Writer; Curator; Professor, Activist Brent Lewis, Co-Founder, Diversify Photo; Business Photo Editor, The New York Times Aida Muluneh , 2018 CatchLight Fellow; Photographer; Contemporary Artist, Founder and Director, Addis Foto Fest The Social Implications of A.I., with Tom Siebel 11/1

SAN FRANCISCO • INFORUM PROGRAM • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6:30 p.m. program • Notes: In association with CatchLight

DENTISTS ORGANIZED FOR VETERANS, THE DOV PROJECT

Dr. Angela Bayat, Clinical Director, Dentists Organized for Veterans The mission of Dentists Organized for Veterans is to enhance lives by providing free, on-going, high-quality dental services in the first private, stand alone, full-service dental clinic in the United States wholly devoted to veterans who do not qualify for dental services from the Veterans Administration and who cannot afford dental care. A significant portion of veterans, many of whom cannot afford dental insurance, suffer through extremely poor oral health and dental neglect. The dental professionals at DOV, overseen by Clinical Director Angela Bayat, DDS, seek to address this appalling circumstance and provide the same standard of care and variety of services found in any modern, private practice at no cost to the veteran. Dr. Bayat has lived all over the world and brings a global perspective on patient care and OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

health. Beginning her professional career as a pharmacy student, Dr. Bayat eventually pursued dentistry as a field that would give her more personal contact with patients. Fluent in three languages, she has a natural talent not only as a practitioner but a trusted caregiver who listens to and addresses the specific concerns of her patients. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 4:45 p.m. check-in, 5:15 p.m. program • MLF: Psychology • Program organizer: Patrick O'Reilly

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6 NOB HILL WALKING TOUR

Explore one of San Francisco’s 44 hills, and one of its original “Seven Hills.” Because of great views and its central position, Nob Hill became an exclusive enclave of the rich and famous on the West Coast who built large mansions in the neighborhood. This included prominent tycoons such as Leland Stanford, and other members of the Big Four. Highlights include the history of four landmark hotels: The Fairmont, Mark Hopkins, Stanford Court, and Huntington Hotel. Visit the city’s largest house of worship, Grace Cathedral, and discover architectural tidbits and anecdotes about the railroad barons and silver kings. A true San Francisco experience of elegance, urbanity, scandals and fabulous views. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: Caffe Cento (meet in front), 801 Powell St. • Time: 1:45 p.m. check-in, 2–4:30 p.m. walk • Notes: Tour operates rain or shine; limited to 20 participants; tickets must be purchased in advance and will not be sold at check-in; walks with fewer than six participants will be canceled (you will receive notification of this at least three days in advance)

THE MIRACLES OF MICROSURGERY

Gregory M. Buncke, M.D., Plastic Surgeon; Director, Buncke Medical Clinic The concept of microsurgery is fairly new in the history of surgery. Microsurgery is a technique that allows the surgeon to repair one-millimeter blood vessels and nerves using an operating room microscope and suture finer than the human hair. In the mid-1960s, Gregory Buncke’s father, Harry Buncke, M.D., recognized that, with the right tools, technique and equipment, he could replant amputated fingers, make a thumb from the big toe or reconstruct post traumatic or large defects. However, those tools and techniques did not

THE COMMO N WE AL TH

exist at that time. Starting nearly from scratch, Buncke began designing and creating microsurgical instruments and microsurgical suture. Most of his early work was done at his home in San Francisco. He created a research surgical suite in his garage, performing rabbit ear replantation and toe-to-thumb transplants in a Rhesus monkey. Buncke was eventually given the title “father of microsurgery” for his commitment to educating thousands of surgeons. Greg Buncke has continued in his father's footsteps, advancing microsurgery both in training and innovation. His group has pushed the envelope in reconstruction of the mutilated hand, for example, restoring all fingers and thumbs with toe transplantation. Breast reconstruction after mastectomy can now preformed using only abdominal or thigh tissue, without the need for an implant. Facial reconstruction can happen as a onestage operation immediately after cancer resection. Transgender males can undergo phalloplasty microsurgically and can obtain an erection, urinate and have sexual sensation. Limbs that were once amputated after trauma can be salvaged and restored to nearly normal function. Peripheral nerve injuries with large gaps now can be microsurgically reconstructed with allografts. The future of reconstructive microsurgery is wide open. New reconstructive indications are being created on a daily basis. Join us, and learn more about these exciting advances.

GRAM • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 11:30 a.m. check-in and light snacks, noon program

THE CASE AGAINST SUGAR

Gary Taubes, Author, The Case Against Sugar The eighth annual Lundberg Institute Lecture focuses on Gary Taubes' groundbreaking exposé, which makes the convincing case that sugar is the tobacco of the new millennium: backed by powerful lobbies, entrenched in our lives and making us very sick. Diabetes is more prevalent today than ever among Americans; obesity is at epidemic proportions. Nearly 10 percent of children are thought to have nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The excessive consumption of sugar is at the root of these and other critical health problems. Taubes delves into Americans' history with sugar: its uses as a preservative, as an additive in cigarettes, and more recently its overuse in the form of high-fructose corn syrup. He presents the arguments against sugar, corrects misconceptions about the relationship between sugar and weight loss, and provides the perspective necessary to make informed

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6 p.m. program • MLF: Health & Medicine • Program organizer: Patty James

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7 ELECTION AFTERMATH: A WEEK TO WEEK POLITICS ROUNDTABLE SPECIAL EDITION

Melissa Caen, Political and Legal Reporter, CBS Bay Area (KPIX) Additional Panelists TBA Join us for a special noontime edition of Week to Week for a post-election wrap-up. What happened? What will happen? We’ll dig into the latest about the most significant winning and losing candidates and propositions in this election, and look ahead to what that means for policy and control in Congress and in California. And, because this is Week to Week, we’ll end the program with our signature live news quiz! SAN FRANCISCO • WEEK TO WEEK PRO-

The Miracles of Microsurgery 11/6

For current prices, call 415.597.6705 or go to commonwealthclub.org

The Case Against Sugar 11/7

decisions about sugar as individuals and as a David Kaplan takes us inside the secret world of the Supreme Court and argues that society. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Em- nine justices have subverted the role of the barcadero, Max Thelan Boardroom, San other branches of government—and how Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6 we’ve come to accept this at our peril. The p.m. program, 7 p.m. book signing • MLF: court is so crucial that some voters in 2016 Humanities • Program organizer: George selected a presidential candidate based on who that candidate would likely appoint. Hammond Donald Trump picked Neil Gorsuch and now Brett Kavanaugh, both potential swing votes JEFFREY ROSEN: THE FUTURE OF on social policies such as abortion, same-sex THE SUPREME COURT AND THE marriage, gun control, campaign finance and CONSTITUTION voting rights. Jeffrey Rosen, President and CEO, NaKaplan asks: Is that really how democracy tional Constitution Center; Professor, is supposed to work? George Washington University Law Based on exclusive interviews with the jusSchool; Author, William Howard Taft: tices and their law clerks, Kaplan will provide The American Presidents Series fresh details about life behind the scenes— With the retirement of Justice Anthony Clarence Thomas’s simmering rage, Antonin Kennedy, the Supreme Court is at a turning Scalia’s death, Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s celebpoint. From privacy and free speech to af- rity. firmative action and immigration, how will Kaplan presents a sweeping narrative of the the court and the Constitution change as a justices’ aggrandizement of power over the result? Join noted constitutional scholar Jef- decades, and he says that the arrogance of the frey Rosen for an examination of the most court isn’t partisan: Conservative and liberal hotly contested constitutional questions of justices alike are guilty of overreach. our time and what they bode for the future SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The of the country. Embarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6:30 p.m. program • MLF: Humanities • Program organizer: George Hammond

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9 THE MOST DANGEROUS BRANCH

San Francisco • Time: 11:30 a.m. checkin, noon program, 1 p.m. book signing • MLF: Humanities • Program organizer: George Hammond

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 13 JAWS: THE STORY OF A HIDDEN EPIDEMIC

David Kaplan, Former Legal Affairs Ed- Sandra Kahn, D.D.S., M.S.D.; Member itor, Newsweek; Author, The Most Dan- of craniofacial anomalies teams, UCSF gerous Branch and Stanford University

Paul R. Ehrlich, Ph.D., Author, The Population Bomb; Bing Professor of Population Studies Emeritus and President of the Center for Conservation Biology, Stanford University There is a serious hidden epidemic just now being discovered by the public health community. It’s most obvious symptom is the growing frequency of children with crooked teeth wearing braces, but it includes children snoring, keeping their jaws hanging open, frequently afflicted with stuffy noses, children and adults with disturbed sleeping at night (sleep apnea) often unrecognized, attention and behavioral problems, and a general decline of physical appearance. Those symptoms indicate a building medical emergency that lies in the collection of serious diseases connected with mouth breathing and disturbed sleep—a collection that includes heart disease, cancer, ADHD, depression, schizophrenia, suicide, asthma and perhaps Alzheimer’s disease. Disturbed sleep is an extremely serious stressor of the human mind and body; among other things, it tends to depress the immune system, making an individual much more vulnerable to a wide variety of diseases, and modifications of the brain that are manifest in many ways only partially understood. Add to this the large contributions of sleep deprivation to highway accidents, medical mistakes and poor performance at work and in school, and it's easy to see how important this unrecognized public health emergency is. Come learn what causes this problem and many solutions. ‘Forwardontics' will be discussed with clear explanations. Sandra Kahn, D.D.S., M.S.D., is a gradOCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

uate from the University of Mexico and the University of the Pacific. She has 25 years of clinical experience in orthodontics and is part of craniofacial anomalies teams at the University of California, San Francisco and Stanford University. Paul R. Ehrlich, Ph.D., has been a household name since the publication of his 1968 bestseller, The Population Bomb. He is Bing Professor of Population Studies Emeritus and president of the Center for Conservation Biology at Stanford University. Ehrlich is a member of the National Academy of Sciences and a recipient of the Crafoord Prize, the Blue Planet Prize, and numerous other international honors. He investigates a wide range of topics in population biology, ecology, evolution, human ecology and environmental science.

p.m. program • MLF: Health & Medicine • her adopted country. Coming to writing later Program organizer: Patty James in life and knowing the importance of build-

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 14 THE MICHELLE MEOW SHOW 11/14/18

SAN FRANCISCO • MICHELLE MEOW CENTURY AND THE RUSSIAN SHOW • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, CULTURAL IMAGINATION Max Thelen Boardroom, San Francisco • Join us to discuss Luba Golburt's book: The Time: 11:30 a.m. check-in, noon program First Epoch: The Eighteenth Century and the

Every Wednesday at 2 p.m., we’re giving members and nonmembers behind-the-scenes tours of our home at 110 The Embarcadero. Join us for a complimentary tour of our beautiful new headquarters on San Francisco’s waterfront. At our state-of-the-art gathering space, which features a rooftop terrace with unobstructed views of the Bay Bridge and San Francisco Bay, you can learn about our storied history and the many amenities of being a Club member. Space is limited, so reserve your spot now to visit San Francisco’s newest—and oldest—cultural treasure at our new location. Feel free to call the front desk ahead of time for extra availability. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, meet in the Osher Lobby, San Francisco • Time: 1:45 p.m. checkin, 2–3 p.m. tour

SHE GAVE UP FAMILY AND COUNTRY FOR LOVE

Suzanne Adam, Author, Notes from the Bottom of the World: A Life in Chile Native Californian and Chilean resident for the past 46 years Suzanne Adam will share highlights from her new memoir, Notes from the Bottom of the World: A Life in Chile. A lifelong learner, naturalist, reader and traveler, Adam explores the ups and downs of her adaptation process and the natural beauty and idiosyncrasies of

THE COMMO N WE AL TH

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 4:45 p.m. check-in, 5:15 p.m. program • MLF: Grownups • Program organizer: John Milford

COMMONWEALTH CLUB WEEKLY SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The EmTOUR barcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6

ing bridges and not walls between cultures, she reveals the joy of sharing life experiences in her seventh decade.

Russian Cultural Imagination. Golburt argues that Russian secular literature’s rapid rise in the 18th century set the stage for Alexander Pushkin and Russia's literary Golden Age in the 19th. Although left in the shadow of the 19th century and often ignored, Golburt argues that in formulating its self-image, writers of the Pushkin era and thereafter wrestled far more with the meaning of their literary predecessors than is commonly appreciated. Interpreting texts by Lomonosov, Derzhavin, Pushkin, Viazemsky, Turgenev, Tolstoy and others, Golburt analyzes the rise of periodization and epochal consciousness, the formation of canon, and the writing of literary history. The discussion will be led by Lynn Harris.

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Max Thelen Boardroom, San Francisco • Time: 6 p.m check-in, 6:30 p.m. program • MLF: Humanities • Program organizer: George Hammond

WOMEN IN THE WORKPLACE IN 2018

Alexis Krivkovich, Partner, Financial Services Practice; Managing Director, McKinsey’s Silicon Valley Ofﬁce Additional Panelists TBA Women, especially women of color, are underrepresented in business—from entry-level to the corner office, across corporate America—even as the number of women earning college degrees exceeds the number of men. As companies, leaders and those focused on diversity press ahead to make change, it’s become key to reflect on both data and stories to help define the problem and iterate on solutions. Women in the Workplace, an annual report and study conducted by Leanin.org and McK-

She Gave Up Family and Country for Love with Suzanne Adam 11/14

For current prices, call 415.597.6705 or go to commonwealthclub.org

Humanities West Book Discussion: The Eighteenth Century and the Russian 11/14

insey, draws data from more than 200 companies that together employ more than 10 million people. The report also includes surveys of tens of thousands of employees and a slew of qualitative interviews and conversations—a vast array of information that can be distilled and leveraged by numerous stakeholders to make significant change. Join one of the authors of the report, Alexis Krivkovich, partner and managing director of McKinsey’s Financial Services Practice in Silicon Valley, along with other corporate and cultural leaders, as they discuss the results of the upcoming 2018 report and how companies are and are not evolving to reflect the times. SAN FRANCISCO • INFORUM PROGRAM • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 6 p.m. check-in, 7 p.m. program

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15 NORTH BEACH WALKING TOUR

Join another Commonwealth Club neighborhood adventure! Explore vibrant North Beach with Rick Evans during a two-hour walk through this neighborhood with a colorful past—where food, culture, history and unexpected views all intersect in an Italian “urban village.” In addition to learning about Beat hangouts, you’ll discover authentic Italian cathedrals and coffee shops.

in advance and will not be sold at check-in; Annika Sridharan, MSW, Psy.D, Founder, walks with fewer than six participants will Clinical and Training Director, Partnerbe canceled; you will receive notification of ships for Trauma Recovery this at least three days in advance There are more forcibly displaced people in

GIVING THANKS: CELEBRATING THE 2018 CALIFORNIA WINE HARVEST WITH SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES AND PAIRINGS

Jim Collins, E.& J. Gallo Kathryn Walt Hall, Hall Wines Aaron Lange, Lange Twins Family Winery and Vineyards Steve Lohr, J. Lohr Vineyards and Wines Allison Jordan, California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance—Moderator Join our distinguished vintner and winegrower panelists as they share their year-long journey toward the 2018 vineyard harvest and their commitment to a healthier environment, stronger communities and vibrant businesses. Following the program, continue the conversation with our panel and celebrate the holidays with a tasting of their outstanding wines.

the world today than at any time since the end of World War II, and the Bay Area has welcomed many of these individuals. Hear from clinicians working directly with Bay Area refugees and asylum seekers about how they are restoring health and awakening hope in response to human rights abuses. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 6 p.m. check-in and refreshments, 6:30 p.m. program

THE TRUTH EFFECT: SILICON VALLEY’S TAKE ON THE MIDTERM ELECTIONS

Terry Christensen, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus, San Jose State University— Moderator Melinda Jackson, Ph.D., Chair, Political Science Department, San Jose State University—Moderator How important are the midterm elections? Hear from our panel as they recap national, state and local results and discuss the growing influence of tech in elections.

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 6 p.m. check-in, 6:30–8:30 p.m. program and wine tasting • MLF: Environment & Natural Resources • Program organizer: Ann Clark SILICON VALLEY • Location: Diaz Compean Student Union Theater, San Jose State University, One Washington Square, SAN FRANCISCO • Location: Victoria Pas- A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE ON San Jose • Time: 6:30 p.m. program try Café, 700 Filbert St., San Francisco • HEALING AFTER TRAUMA: WHERE Time: 1:45 p.m. check-in, 2–4:30 p.m. walk HEALTH AND HUMAN RIGHTS MEET FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 16 • Notes: Take Muni bus 30, 41 or 45; use Nick Nelson, MBBS, Medical Director, North Beach Parking Garage on 735 Vallejo Highland Hospital Human Rights Clinic INSIDE THE EPA: St.; tour operates rain or shine; limited to Sita Patel, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of YOUR HEALTH AT RISK 20 participants; tickets must be purchased Clinical Psychology, Palo Alto University E.G. Vallianatos, Ph.D., Author, Poison OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

Spring; Former Staff Scientist, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); Former Staff Member, Congressional Ofﬁce of Technology Assessment; Former Legislative Assistant, Representative Clarence Long (D–MD) E.G. Vallianatos will discuss his book Poison Spring, which documents in detail what he says are the EPA’s corruption and misuses of science and public trust. He accuses the EPA, in its half century of existence, of repeatedly reinforcing the “chemical industrial complex” by endorsing deadly chemicals, botching field investigations, turning a blind eye to toxic disasters and swallowing the claims of the industry. Come learn an insider’s view of how the EPA has allowed our lands and waters to be poisoned with more toxic chemicals than ever.

DESTROYING YEMEN

Isa Blumi, Ph.D., Author, Destroying Yemen: What Chaos in Arabia Tells Us About the World Since 2015, a Saudi-led coalition, supported by Britain and the United States, has waged a devastating war on Yemen, resulting in a humanitarian disaster largely ignored by the world's media. Isa Blumi, a noted historian, senior lecturer and associate professor at Stockholm University (specializing in Ottoman history, Albania and Yemen) will discuss his latest book, Destroying Yemen: What Chaos in Arabia Tells Us About the World, published by UC Press.

GENERAL STANLEY MCCHRYSTAL

General Stanley McChrystal Retired Army General; Author, Leaders: Myth and Reality In an era where strong leadership qualities, for everyone from young college applicants to accomplished CEOs, are seemingly valued above all else, retired four-star General Stanley McChrystal offers his own experienced perspective on leadership traits. McChrystal has observed his fair share of successful and failed leadership—from his training at West Point to service as top commander in Afghanistan under President Obama. In his most recent book, Leaders: Myth and Reality, this New York Times best-selling author digs deeper into the legacies of famed leaders to better understand how particular environments determine what type of leader is needed. Join us for a thoughtful analysis of well-known leaders and a discussion about personal application.

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Max Thelan Boardroom, SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Em- San Francisco • Time: 11:30 a.m. checkbarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, in, noon program • MLF: Middle East San Francisco • Time: 11:30 a.m. check- • Program organizer: Celia Menczel • in, noon program, 1 p.m. book signing • Notes: This program is part of our Good SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The EmMLF: Health & Medicine • Program orga- Lit series, underwritten by the Bernard barcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 11:30 a.m. check-in, noon Osher Foundation. nizer: Susan Downs

THE COMMO N WE AL TH

Inside the EPA: Your Health at Risk 11/16

For current prices, call 415.597.6705 or go to commonwealthclub.org

General Stanley McChrystal 11/16 program, 1p.m. book signing • Notes: Part College; Author, The Rohingyas: Inside of our Good Lit series, underwritten by the Myanmar’s Hidden Genocide Bernard Osher Foundation This past August marked the 30th anniver-

DAWNLAND: FILM SCREENING AND DISCUSSION

Join us for a screening of Dawnland which follows the first govland, ernment-sanctioned truth and reconciliation commission in the U.S., investigating the devastating impact of Maine’s child welfare practices on Native Americans. With never-before-seen footage, Dawnland reveals the untold narrative of indigenous child removal. We will have a short pre-screening Q&A with immigration activists.

sary of Myanmar’s pro-democracy uprising in 1988. At the same moment, accusations of ethnic cleansing of the Rohingya Muslims and widespread human rights abuses across the Southeast Asian nation have prompted the United States to impose new sanctions, specifically on four military and police commanders and two army units. These recent actions by government forces taking place in Rohingya communities within Myanmar suggest that the promises of democracy have been betrayed. The responsibility, according to Azeem Ibrahim, rests on Nobel Peace Prize winner and de facto leader of the country, Aung San Suu Kyi, and her party as much as anyone else. Come hear this startling story.

SAN FRANCISCO • MICHELLE MEOW SHOW • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in and reception, 6:30 p.m. program • Notes: In associa- SAN FRANCISCO • Location: World Affairs, 312 Sutter St., Suite 200, San Frantion with Women’s March cisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check in, 6:30 p.m. MONDAY, NOVEMBER 19 program and book signing • Notes: In association with World Affairs

SOCRATES CAFÉ

The Humanities Forum sponsors Socrates Café at The Commonwealth Club. Each meeting is devoted to the discussion of a philosophical topic chosen at that meeting. The group's facilitator, John Nyquist, invites participants to suggest topics, which are then voted on. The person who proposed the most popular topic is asked to briefly explain why she or he considers that topic interesting and important. An open discussion follows, and the meeting ends with a summary of the various perspectives participants expressed. Everyone is welcome to attend. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Max Thelen Boardroom, San Francisco • Time: 6 p.m. checkin, 6:30–8 p.m. program • MLF: Humanities • Program organizer: George Hammond

AZEEM IBRAHIM: INSIDE MYANMAR’S HIDDEN GENOCIDE

Azeem Ibrahim Ibrahim, Ph.D., Research Professor, Strategic Studies Institute, U.S. Army War

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 26 MIDDLE EAST FORUM DISCUSSION

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Max Thelan Board Room, San Francisco • Time: 5 p.m. check-in, 5:30 p.m. program • MLF: Middle East • Program organizer: Celia Menczel

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 27 THE TRANSFORMATION AND PURPOSE OF CAPITAL

Jed Emerson, Strategic Advisor; Senior Research Fellow, University of Heidelberg’s Center on Social Investing Donna Morton, CEO and Co-Founder, Change Finance How did we come to separate our understanding of economic/financial value from social/environmental value? How did we come to think of ourselves as being separate from our neighbors, community and planet? By crafting a new, holistic understanding of ourselves and our relationship to one another, OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

we are able to approach a deeper, more significant understanding of the purpose of capital, which can then anchor our definition of the purpose of capital, how we understand the nature of returns (both financial and extra-financial) and a deeper understanding of the meaning of money. In a fireside chat, Donna Morton and Jed Emerson will explore these ideas—history and culture—connecting those within the current trend toward impact investing and sustainable finance as vehicles to generate financial returns with social and environmental impacts and the creation of a more just world for both human and nonhuman communities. The audience will come away with a new mindset for a future that is clean, just and regenerative for people and planet. Asking new questions—how can the people left out of the economy become our greatest assets—financial activism could unite Occupy and Wall Street, the 99 and the 1 percent. Movements such as Black Lives Matter, sanctuary cities, intersectional feminism and climate justice are the edges and opportunities for finance. Beyond divestment, the speakers will discuss moving finance from harm to healing. SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6 p.m. program, 7 p.m. book signing • MLF: Business & Leadership • Program organizer: Elizabeth Carney

JOSE ANTONIO VARGAS

Jose Antonio Vargas, Founder and CEO, Deﬁne America; Author, Dear America: Notes of an Undocumented Citizen Jose Antonio Vargas has shaped and been shaped by an America that does not claim him. Working as a journalist, he received praise for his contributions to the Pulitzer Prize-winning breaking news coverage of the Virginia Tech shooting. Yet it was the admission of his own undocumented status that made him perhaps the most famous undocumented immigrant in America. Since then, he has become an outspoken advocate for undocumented immigrants. In his new book, Dear America: Notes of an Undocumented Citizen, Vargas describes what it feels like to not have a home in a country in which he contributes. During his visit, Vargas will help us understand undocumented immigrants’ reality—to live in uncertainty, to find support in

THE COMMO N WE AL TH

adopted communities—and what it means to about our storied history and the many amebe American in a changing country. nities of being a Club member.

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Em- SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Taube Family Auditorium, San barcadero, Osher Lobby, San Francisco • Francisco • Time: 6 p.m. check-in, 6:30 Time: 1:45 p.m. check-in, 2–3 p.m. tour p.m. program, 7:30 p.m. book signing • Notes: This program is part of our Good THE FUNDAMENTAL CHALLENGE OF Lit series, underwritten by the Bernard PLANNING YOUR ESTATE: WHAT’S Osher Foundation

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28 COMMONWEALTH CLUB WEEKLY TOUR

Every Wednesday at 2 p.m., we’re giving both members and nonmembers behind-thescenes tours of our home at 110 The Embarcadero. Join us for a complimentary tour of our beautiful new headquarters on San Francisco’s waterfront. At our state-of-the-art gathering space, which features a rooftop terrace with unobstructed views of the Bay Bridge and San Fr a n c i s c o Bay, you c a n learn

FAIR IN FAMILY INHERITANCE?

Ruth Dixon-Mueller, Ph.D, Author; Professor Frederick Hertz, Attorney; Mediator John O’Grady, Estate Attorney; Media-

Jose Antonio Vargas 11/27

For current prices, call 415.597.6705 or go to commonwealthclub.org

tor—Moderator Deciding how to structure your estate plan often presents daunting ethical and emotional challenges. As you ponder how to distribute your assets, you might struggle to design a plan that seems fair not just to you, but also to your heirs. Often, different family members have radically disparate needs, and there might be worthy causes that you would like to support. How can you create a legacy that honors your personal values without provoking family disputes or hurt feelings among those you leave behind?

the City of Light and around the hexagon—in Le Périgord, Cote d'Azur, Alsace and Burgundy—always with a focus on wine, food and culture.

SAN FRANCISCO • MICHELLE MEOW SHOW • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Max Thelen Boardroom, San Francisco • SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Em- Time: 11:30 a.m. check-in, noon program barcadero, Max Thelen Boardroom, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. networking JUST GIVING reception, 6 p.m. program, 7 p.m. book Rob Reich, Professor of Political Scisigning • MLF: Humanities • Program or- ence and Philosophy, Graduate School ganizer: George Hammond of Education, Stanford University; Direc-

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29 THE MICHELLE MEOW SHOW

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Em- 11/29/18 barcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, Michelle Meow, Host, "The Michelle San Francisco • Time: 4:45 p.m. check-in, Meow Show" (Radio and TV) 5:15 p.m. program • MLF: Grownups • John Zipperer, Host, Week to Week Program organizer: Denise Michaud Join us as Michelle Meow brings her

long-running daily radio show to The Commonwealth Club one day each week. Meet Terrance Gelenter, Author, Travels in fascinating—and often controversial—people France with Terrance discussing important issues of interest to the Terrance Gelenter will discuss his life in Par- LGBTQ community, and have your questions is and the adventures to be had an hour from ready. See more upcoming Michelle Meow

PARIS THROUGH EXPATRIATE EYES

Paris Through Expatriate Eyes 11/28

Shows at commonwealthclub/mms.

tor, Center for Ethics in Society, Stanford University; Author, Just Giving: Why Philanthropy Is Failing Democracy and How It Can Do Better Is philanthropy, by its very nature, a threat to democracy? Though we may laud wealthy individuals who give away their money for society’s benefit, Rob Reich shows how such generosity not only isn’t the unassailable good we think it is, but it might also undermine democratic values. Big philanthropy is often a conversion of private assets into public influence—a form of power that is largely unaccountable and tax-advantaged. And small

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

philanthropy, or ordinary charitable giving, can be problematic as well. What attitude and what policies should democracies have concerning individuals who give away money for public purposes? Reich suggests that the goal of mass giving should be the decentralization of power in the production of public goods, such as the arts, education and science. For foundations, the goal should be long-term horizon innovations that enhance democratic experimentalism. Reich concludes that philanthropy can play a crucial role in supporting a strong liberal democracy.

intriguing tale, using real and fictional characters from old and modern Cairo; Victorian England; and Berkeley, California. The novel follows Joseph (the son of a Muslim father and Jewish mother) as he traces his forefather’s role in guarding Cairo’s historic Ibn Ezra Synagogue and the ties that bind his family.

explains how to approach these choices more effectively and how we can appreciate the subtle ways choices have shaped our broader social history.

“FARSIGHTED”

The gene-editing technology known as CRISPR is transforming everything, from pharmaceutical research to agriculture to the process of making yogurt (really). It is a disruptive technology that allows people to change the genetic code of life. In some cases, it’s also raising complicated global questions about risk, regulation and even human values.

NORTH BAY • MARIN CONVERSATIONS PROGRAM • Location: Outdoor Art Club, One West Blithedale, Mill Valley • Time: SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Em- 7 p.m. check-in and complimentary light barcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, hors d’oeuvres, 7:45–9 p.m. program • San Francisco • Time: 11:30 a.m. check-in, Notes: Cash bar available noon program followed by book signing • MLF: Middle East • Program organizer: NOVEMBER 20 Celia Menczel • Notes: Part of our Good Lit SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Em- series, underwritten by the Bernard Osher HOW CRISPR GENE EDITING IS CHANGING THE WORLD barcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, Foundation Jennifer Kahn, Contributing Writer, New San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. check-in, 6 LATE-BREAKING EVENTS York Times Magazine; Lecturer, Magap.m. program, 7 p.m. book signing • MLF: zine Program at UC Berkeley Graduate Humanities • Program organizer: George NOVEMBER 15 School of Journalism Hammond STEVEN JOHNSON, AUTHOR OF

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30

SEBASTIAN GORKA

Sebastian Gorka, Former Deputy Assistant to President Donald Trump; Fox News National Security Strategist; Author, Why We Fight: Defeating America’s Enemies—With No Apologies Sebastian Gorka served as deputy assistant to President Donald Trump for much of 2017 and continues to be an outspoken supporter of the president’s agenda. Currently, Gorka works as a national security strategist for Fox News. Since his emergence on the political stage, his controversial nationalist views have seen a resurgence across the western world. In his new book, Gorka asserts that if America wants to succeed in the war on terror, we need a clear, unifying doctrine. He believes willful ignorance about our adversary—whether it’s Russia, China, or the global jihadi movement—has crippled America and our will to fight outside threats. Join us for a conversation with this provocative figure who continues to influence global affairs.

Steven Johnson, Author, Farsighted: How We Make the Decisions That Matter the Most Jacob Ward, Science and Technology Correspondent, CNN Bestselling author Johnson is back with a new book about the important decisions that can alter the course of a life, an organization or a civilization. He

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Toni Rembe Rock Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 5:30 p.m. networking reception, 6 p.m. program • MLF: Science & Technology • Program organizer: Gerald Harris

SAN FRANCISCO • Location: 110 The Embarcadero, Taube Auditorium, San Francisco • Time: 11 a.m. check-in, noon program • Notes: Attendees subject to search

THE LAST WATCHMAN OF OLD CAIRO

Michael David Lukas, Author, The Last Watchman of Old Cairo Jonathan Curiel, Journalist—Moderator Michael David Lukas will discuss his critically acclaimed multigenerational novel, The Last Watchman of Old Cairo. Lukas weaves an

THE COMMO N WE AL TH

Just Giving with Rob Reich 11/29

LEADERSHIP OF THE COMMONWEALTH CLUB CLUB OFFICERS Board Chair Richard A. Rubin Vice Chair Evelyn S. Dilsaver Secretary Dr. Jaleh Daie Treasurer John R. Farmer President & CEO Dr. Gloria C. Duffy

Mary B. Cranston** Susie Cranston Dr. Kerry P. Curtis Dorian Daley Alecia DeCoudreaux Lee Dutra Joseph I. Epstein* Jeffrey A. Farber Rev. Paul J. Fitzgerald, S.J. Dr. Carol A. Fleming Leslie Saul Garvin Paul M. Ginsburg BOARD OF Hon. James C. Hormel GOVERNORS Mary Huss John F. Allen Julie Kane Courtland Alves John Leckrone Scott Anderson Dr. Mary Marcy Dan Ashley Frank C. Meerkamp Massey J. Bambara Dr. Mary G. F. Bitterman** Lenny Mendonca Anna W.M. Mok Harry E. Blount Donald J. Pierce John L. Boland Maryles Casto** Bruce Raabe

Skip Rhodes* Bill Ring Martha Ryan George M. Scalise Lata Krishnan Shah Charlotte Mailliard Shultz George D. Smith, Jr. James Strother Hon. Tad Taube Charles Travers Kimberly Twombly-Wu Don Wen Dr. Colleen B. Wilcox Jed York Mark Zitter ADVISORY BOARD Karin Helene Bauer Hon. William Bradley Dennise M. Carter Steven Falk Amy Gershoni Jacquelyn Hadley

Dr. Joseph R. Fink * William German * Rose Guilbault** Claude B. Hutchison Jr. * Dr. Julius Krevans* Anna W.M. Mok** Richard Otter* Joseph Perrelli* Toni Rembe* Victor J. Revenko* Skip Rhodes* PAST BOARD CHAIRS Renée Rubin * AND PRESIDENTS Robert Saldich** Dr. Mary G. F. Bitterman ** Connie Shapiro * Hon. Shirley Temple Nelson Weller * Black*† Judith Wilbur * J. Dennis Bonney* Dennis Wu* John Busterud* Maryles Casto** * Past President Hon. Ming Chin* ** Past Chair Mary B. Cranston** † Deceased Joseph I. Epstein * Heather Kitchen Amy McCombs Don J. McGrath Hon. William J. Perry Hon. Barbara Pivnicka Hon. Richard Pivnicka Dr. Ruth A. Shapiro Ray Taliaferro Hon. Ellen O’Kane Tauscher Nancy Thompson

Never miss a Commonwealth Club program!

Subscribe to our podcasts on iTunes, Google Play or Stitcher! or

stream thousands of Club programs on your computer at commonwealthclub.org/podcasts OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

INSIGHT Rx for California Health Care Dr. Gloria C. Duffy, President and CEO

positive antidote to the terrorist legacy of 17 years ago, this September 11th the University of California, San Francisco hosted a symposium on Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The question posed was, given policy paralysis at the national level, will California take the lead as a state, as it has in addressing climate change, by bringing about complete access to medical care for its population? The panelists and speakers included three international political leadersâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;former President of Ireland Mary Robinson, former UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon, and former Chilean President Richard Lagos. They participated through their affiliation with a group called The Elders, founded by Nelson Mandela. Through The Elders, these former heads of state identify important global goals and push current national leaders to bold action by sharing their own experiences of how it may be politically possible. The Elders have adopted Universal Health Coverage as a key goal for international development. They believe that access to health care is a human right. At UCSF on September 11, Ban Ki-Moon also tied together the dangers of global warming and the need for better health care, citing the health impact of the fires in California and the spread of diseases formerly restricted to tropical climates. Other participants included health-care economists; an emergency room physician, Joaquin Arambula, who serves in the California State Assembly; and a young physician who has tested a project in Mali to create universal health care under the most challenging circumstances of civil war, a coup and an Ebola outbreak. The assembled group believes that incoming Governor Gavin Newsom will make UHC a top priority for California, hence their focus on California. Newsom has endorsed a single-payer health-care proposal. Arambula has co-sponsored a pending bill, AB 2517, establishing a state advisory panel to develop a plan to achieve universal health coverage and a unified publicly financed health-care system. The advisory panel would be required to submit its plan to the state legislature in 2020, with a timetable for implementing a universal health-care system. The California Nurses Association strongly backs a publicly financed universal health-care system. Even as the stars seem to align for comprehensive health care in our state, financing is a key question. How would the cost of such a system be borne? Could moving to a publicly financed, comprehensive coverage system ultimately be more economical than our current system? Most of the experts at the symposium believe the high cost of emergency care and other costs of lack of health coverage could make universal coverage less expensive in the long run. The key to providing health coverage for all is to spend our

THE COMMO N WE AL TH

health-care dollars in the right way. As Dr. Richard Scheffler, a professor of health economics at UC Berkeley, said, we need an integrated health-care delivery system rather than a system based on piece-rate charges for each service. He said 60 percent of Californians are currently part of an integrated system, such as through Kaiser. Increasing this to 70 percent of Californians Photo courtesy of Gloria Duffy covered by an integrated system, he says, would save $48 billion, enough to cover all those in California not currently covered by medical insurance. As former Chilean President Lagos noted, the United States spends 17 percent of its GDP on health care, the highest outlay of any country in the world. Yet our life expectancy is 22nd out of 35 developed countries, below that of Slovenia and Chile. So the efficacy of the current U.S. health-care system doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t add up. He stressed the need for political will to bring about a change. Lagos described a process in Chile where, as president, he was directly involved, utilizing an independent commission for advice and introducing gradual changes over five years, covering more medical procedures each year. Today in Chile, 56 procedures are covered by the national health-care system. Opposition to universal health coverage in California will likely come from libertarians, free-marketeers, some businesses and others who are rightly concerned about the costs of such a system. This illustrates another possible parallel between health care and climate change and a potential positive force to bring about UHC. After the oil embargo of 1973, during his first governorship, Jerry Brown championed alternative energy. The 1970s effort in California to create sustainable energy fizzled and we remained dependent on non-renewable sources. Yet several decades later, California has a thriving clean-tech industry, and expects to be 100 percent reliant on clean energy by 2045. What changed? An economic interest developed in the technology needed to bring about the evolution to clean energy. We could see a similar development in the health-care field. There are so many efficiencies and economies that flow today from the results of genetic and other medical research, and from the application of digital technology to medicine, that strong economic interests may develop in the systems and procedures that universal health-care coverage would require. Let us hope those interests will help carry us forward to affordable health coverage for all.

On the Road to Freedom Understanding the Civil Rights Movement April 7-14, 2019 Join Judge LaDoris Cordell (Ret.) on a carefully designed program which focuses on understanding the Civil Rights Movement, as we travel to Jackson, Little Rock, Memphis, Birmingham, Selma, Montgomery.

• Visit important sites of the movement, from Selma’s Edmund Pettus Bridge to Little Rock High School. • Meet with many figures who were involved, such as 16th Street Baptist Church bombing survivor Dr. Rev. Carolyn McKinstry, Bloody Sunday foot soldier Annie Pearl Avery, and Little Rock Nine member Elizabeth Eckford. • Experience the newly opened Memorial for Peace and Social Justice in Montgomery, and the Civil Rights Museum in Jackson. • Meet with members of the Equal Justice Initiative and learn about the work that is being done today to fight racial injustices in the legal system. • Explore the Mississippi Delta, tour Malaco Records and the B.B. King Museum, and enjoy local music and restaurants featuring southern specialties. Cost: $3,995 per person, based on double occupancy

Brochure at commonwealthclub.org/travel

| 415.597.6720

travel@commonwealthclub.org CST: 2096889-40

To purchase tickets:

The Commonwealth Club of California

visit commonwealthclub.org or call (415) 597-6705 or call (800) 847-7730

P.O. Box 194210 San Francisco, CA 94119

Periodicals postage paid in San Francisco, California

To subscribe to our email newsletter: visit commonwealthclub.org and use the simple “Be the First to Know” feature on the homepage

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 5

Details on page 31

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 16

BARBARA LEE

REID HOFFMAN

Barbara Lee, U.S. Representative for District 13 (D-CA)

Reid Hoﬀman, Partner, Greylock Partners; Co-founder, LinkedIn; Co-author, Blitzscaling: The Lightning-Fast Path to Building Massively Valuable Companies

Congresswoman Barbara Lee has spent 20 years representing Oakland and the East Bay in Congress. She has enjoyed a storied career, including stints within the California State Assembly and State Senate. Throughout her career, Lee has advocated for LGBTQ rights, minority rights, women’s rights and an end to the cycle of poverty. Most notably, she was the lone vote against the war on terror, which was lauded by the anti-war community. Today, she serves on the House Appropriations Committee and the House Committee on the Budget, and she previously served as chair of the Congressional Black Caucus.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 16

Details on page 36

WENDY SHERMAN

Details on page 36

What is the secret to becoming the next Amazon or Facebook? According to legendary entrepreneur and investor Reid Hoffman, blitzscaling is the only competitive advantage that matters. Reid Hoffman describes why scaling up at a dizzying pace will ultimately blow competitors out of the water. He offers a wide range of advice for start-ups and established businesses on navigating the challenges and opportunities that every company will face.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 17

Details on page 36

TUCKER CARLSON

Wendy Sherman, Former U.S. Under Secretary of State for Political Aﬀairs; Author, Not for the Faint of Heart: Lessons in Courage, Power, and Persistence

Tucker Carlson, Host, Fox News’ “Tucker Carlson Tonight,” Author, Ship of Fools: How a Selﬁsh Ruling Class is Bringing America to the Brink of Revolution

From her early career as a social worker to serving as one of the few women present in international negotiations, Wendy Sherman has experienced politics and international diplomacy like few have. She has served as special advisor to President Clinton, North Korea policy coordinator and chief U.S. negotiator for the Iran nuclear deal. Today, Sherman believes American diplomacy is under greater threat than in any other recent time.

As the host of Fox News Channel’s highly rated “Tucker Carlson Tonight,” he is an outspoken supporter of President Trump’s agenda. Now Carlson says that America is run by “the new American elites, a group whose power and wealth has grown beyond imagination even as the rest of the country has withered. . . . They have total contempt for you.” Carlson adds that “Left and right are no longer meaningful categories in America. The rift is between those who benefit from the status quo, and those who don’t.”