American leaders have, over the span of the republic’s life, claimed or implied that pursuing fairness and justice reflects fundamental American values. And certainly, American leaders have done much to promote fairness and justice – “To form a more perfect Union.”

Yet these leaders designed policy or executed practices we might consider unfair or unjust. In this Discourse, we try to understand the apparent inconsistencies. We might ask whether fairness and justice are ideas that must be considered in the context of their times. Are they defined absolutely or relatively? Were the presidents cited above hypocrites or strivers operating in imperfect environments? We also ask fundamental questions about fairness and justice. How might we define the terms? Are they synonyms? Near synonyms? Interdependent or complementary ideas? Does one concept enable the other? How might we evaluate whether fairness or justice exists? Are the concepts quantifiable? When a politician articulates intent to administer fairly or justly, what might that person mean? How might we discuss or question intent? How should we describe our history and future as a fair and just nation?

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I hope you will join ole friends and new to discuss this matter. RSVP sooner rather than later, as the venue, my home (308 Wolfe Street, Alexandria VA, 22314), is small. I can accommodate a maximum of 15 guests (which will be “cozy.”).

Happy hour (drinks and light bites) begins at 6:30 PM. At 7:30 PM-ish we will discuss... until the cows come home or till you go home.

The essay will be attached to the invite as well as available through the Discourse for Democracy web site (www.discoursefordemocracy.org). Go to upcoming events to find the event for September 18, 2026 – exclusively for the Cornell Club and Ivy Club of Washington.

Sincerely, Matt (703-472-0159)