Last weekend, twelve of our student and professional members trekked to Miami, Florida to discuss the future of free trade. Diana Furchtgott-Roth, Harold Furchtgott-Roth, and Edward Hearst led discussions that covered the president's protectionist proposals, modern trade agreements, and trade in the age of the internet and international financial institutions. With discussions located only a block from Miami Beach, members experienced the beautiful spring weather in South Florida throughout the weekend.
In preparation for the event, members read a variety of texts to prepare. On the list were a number of contemporary news articles and op-eds by journalists, think tank scholars, and economists — ranging from Paul Krugman and Joseph Stiglitz to Peter Navarro. The goal of readings these texts was for participants to get a wide-ranging survey of the various views of trade. They also policy documents on NAFTA, as well as congressional and USTR reports. With NAFTA renegotiations looming and TPP beginning to go into effect globally, the topic of free trade was pertinent for this trek.
Outside of discussions, members, discussion leaders, and Smith Soc staff enjoyed networking and downtime throughout Miami beach. Between dinners and beach trips, all of the trek attendees were able to get know each other over the short weekend retreat.
Stay tuned for announcements on our fall treks.