Read more from Aspen Institute Citizenship and American Program associate director, Caroline Hopper, in this CNN Opinion piece on the Better Arguments Project in Detroit.

The program included remarks by local and national leaders, including Colorado Governor Jared Polis. Participants had the opportunity to constructively engage in contentious topics as they relate to metro Denver's booming tech industry.

In partnership with the Urban Consulate, a pilot event was held in Detroit to address tensions between longtime Detroiters and newcomers as the city adapts to a time of rapid change and growth.