Events

Wednesday 9/11/2024 - The Free Speech Movement at American Universities

Time and Location

Event Summary

In celebration of the 60th anniversary of Berkeley's historic Free Speech Movement (FSM), renowned legal scholars Nadine Strossen and Erwin Chemerinsky will explore its pivotal role in advancing civil rights and political change in America. They will discuss how attitudes toward free speech have shifted over the years on college campuses, and address contemporary free speech challenges facing universities today, such as cancel culture, the heckler’s veto, compelled speech, and institutional neutrality. Together, they will consider whether the ongoing free speech debate is moving us toward or away from social progress and what steps universities can take to avoid the free speech controversies on campuses last year.

The event will begin with a screening of a short documentary, produced by American Focus and FIRE, on Berkeley’s Free Speech Movement, emphasizing the connection between free speech and civil rights.

Monthly Meetings

We meet monthly, usually at 5pm on a Tuesday or Wednesday. The date shifts, so join our mailing list or contact the chairs if you'd like to join us. Topics vary month to month, with much room for impromptu conversation.