Illinois Valley Community College will recognize Constitution Day with a student sponsored "Death Penalty Debate" from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18, in Room C-316.

Students enrolled in American National Government classes will participate on the debate team, contribute research for their team or attend the debate. Neal Pierson of La Salle will lead the pro-death penalty team and McKenzie Price of Manville will lead the con-death penalty team.

"The death penalty continues to be a controversial subject in American politics," said Amanda Bigelow, faculty adviser and professor of political science. "The battle between Chicago prosecutors, Northwestern University"s School of Journalism"s ";Innocence Project" and Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia"s recent remarks that innocence is not a constitutional protection against the death penalty are all recent examples of how the nation remains divided over this issue."

The event is open to the public and admission is free. For information, contact Bigelow at 815-224-0203.