Former Senator Ernie Chambers speaks at Concordia

In the provocative, frank style which has marked his entire career, former Nebraska State Senator Ernie Chambers touched on a variety of topics--technology’s effect on interpersonal relationships, racism in America, the Nebraska legislature--when he spoke at Concordia's Weller auditorium April 15. Chambers' was invited to speak as part of Concordia University, Nebraska’s Looking Beyond Speaker Series. A lengthy question and answer session followed the talk.

One of the unifying threads of Chambers' message was his encouragement of audience members to decide what they believed in and to stand up for it.  “I believe he was intentionally trying to provoke thoughts from us and not preconceived notions,” said freshman Rachel Gordon. “He succeeded because now I can’t stop thinking about the presentation.”

“Chambers has been a strong voice for blacks as well as for the poor and the powerless in society, and his outspokenness has made him a controversial figure in Nebraska,” said Dr. Bruce Creed, professor of communication. “He has been an important voice, and this was a significant opportunity for our students.”

Representing North Omaha’s 11th District, Chambers served 38 years in the Nebraska State Legislature. His term ended in 2009 due to a term limits law passed in 2000. He is the longest-serving senator in Nebraska history. Chambers has announced his intent to run for his former seat in the 2012 election.