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On Wednesday 24 April, we were extremely fortunate to welcome Professor Keith Magee to Westminster City School. Keith Magee is Senior Fellow and Visiting Professor in Cultural Justice at UCL IIPP, Chair and Professor in Social Justice, Newcastle University, Chair of The Guardian Foundation, with expertise as a policy advisor to US governors, congressional members and US presidents including President Barack Obama and President Joe Biden.

Keith Magee delivered a very thought-provoking talk to students in Year 12 titled, 'Saving Democracy Through Common Ground and Empathy - Will You Sign Up?'

Addressing the bright minds in the audience, Keith said:

"I believe in you just as you are. Regardless of our differences, we can build a genuine connection and make a difference when we learn how to listen to others in a way that helps us to develop empathy."

Year 12 student, Joshua K said:

“I really enjoyed hearing Mr Magee’s opinions on society and how democracy is in danger by the current world.

“My main takeaway from our conversation was his views on how economics and politics go hand in hand and the importance of a network. Hearing Mr Magee’s life story, the various roles he has been able to secure, including the role of advisor to President Barack Obama, really changed by perspective on the importance of networking and not being afraid to start a conversation with strangers.”

Gloria, who is also in Year 12 added:

“The assembly allowed me to acknowledge the immense ability my generation has to save democracy by being able to find a common ground. The informal conversation also allowed me and my peers to practice working towards a better democracy by hearing Keith Magee’s differing viewpoints on topics such as the Civil Rights, Religion and British Democracy.

As mentioned by Keith Magee during his visit to Westminster City School, “if democracy is going to be saved, we need to truly be able to listen”. Being able to have the chance to listen to his viewpoints and delve into a discussion allowed us to take that first step in bettering democracy.”

Westminster City School would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Keith Magee for taking the time out of his busy schedule to spend an entire 2 hours with us - inspiring our students and helping them to see that they have the power to make a difference in society.