November 16, 2009

A famous actor known for such films as "Jaws" and 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind" visits the University of Virginia, but not to talk about Hollywood.

Richard Dreyfuss often speaks and writes about civics issues like democracy and freedom of speech. During Monday's speech, he told the crowd at the Miller Center that he's afraid America is heading down the wrong path, one that could put the Bill of Rights in jeopardy.

Dreyfuss thinks a lack of civic involvement could mean the end of America as we know it.

"Thus far, we are the best answer by leagues. We're not going to be defeated by an outside power, we are going to chuck it voluntarily unless we learn better," says Dreyfuss.

The Miller Center of Public Affairs and the Harrison Institute for American History, literature, and culture sponsored the afternoon event.