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The DCFR Salon Series

Intimate Conversations Global Perspectives

The World, Unfiltered: While our Speaker Series offers the “Big Picture,” the DCFR Salon Series is where we roll up our sleeves. Hosted in intimate settings across Denver, our Salons are designed for those who want to go beyond the headlines. These aren’t lectures—they are facilitated, high-level dialogues where every voice in the room adds to the global map.  This is your chance to get to know other members and be part of a community!

What is a DCFR Salon? A ‘DCFR salon’ is a social gathering where people respectfully discuss, exchange, and consider critical ideas, policy, and philosophy with respect to international relations and its impact on Colorado and the world.

Explore the Issue – Debate the Questions: Expect differing opinions, opposing positions, and contrasting views. Come prepared to share your views and speak your mind about some of the most pressing international issues facing us today!

The Member Experience

Exclusive Access

These sessions are strictly limited to 15 DCFR members and are not open to the general public.

Member-Led Dialogue

We invite a facilitator to spark the evening, BUT the heart of the Salon is the exchange of ideas between you and your fellow members.

Complimentary Benefit

Attendance is free for all current DCFR members. Enjoy snacks, refreshments and conversation!

How It Works

  • Small Groups: Limited to 15–20 participants to ensure everyone can engage.
  • Expert-Led: Each session is anchored by a subject matter expert or a “Global Fellow” who provides the initial spark for the evening’s conversation.
  • Deep Dives: We focus on one specific “hot zone” or global trend—from the ethics of AI in warfare to the shifting power dynamics of the African continent.
  • The “Chatham House” Rule: To encourage candid and honest debate, our Salons are off-the-record environments.
  • Food for Thought: Each salon will have suggested articles and questions that might be discussed that evening. The goal is for the group to think about the topic and engage with relevant materials before the event starts.

How to Get Involved

We are always looking for volunteers to help with our Salon Series! If you’d like to get involved, please email [email protected] and include “SALON” in the subject line.

Host a Salon

Provide a welcome space, snacks and drinks.

Lead the Discussion

Set the stage and encourage participation.

Join our Committee!

Brainstorm the topics and build a community.