It’s OK to Speak Freely about Peace
Panel presenters will discuss our right to publicly decry acts of war by the United States and other countries, including views that challenge general public perceptions, such as opposition to the Iraq War or positions on resolutions to the Israel/Palestine conflict. Panelists will include faculty, students, and community advocates of peace, including U.S. veterans, who will ponder the question, "Why is peace treated like a four letter, inflammatory word?"
Artistic Expression and Free Speech
From Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel Ceiling to Robert Mapplethorpe’s photographs to sacred sculptures in Afghanistan, artistic expression has often been a topic of controversy. Discussion will focus on several classic cases where art has been a topic of public debate, censorship, or destruction.
The Media and Free Speech
A panel of journalists, educators, and attorneys will discuss challenges to openness in government and how it impacts the public’s right to know and participate in the democratic process.
Free Speech on Campus
College and university campuses are traditionally viewed as places that celebrate freedom of speech and academic enquiry. Is this perception the reality? This discussion will examine current issues regarding free speech and its limitations on campuses.
National Security and Free Speech
In a democracy, the tension between security and liberty is never greater than during times of war and terrorism. This discussion will examine the impact of the PATRIOT Act on civil liberties in the United States since its enactment following the attacks of 9-11.
Religion and Free Speech
A discussion of issues, both historical and contemporary, that shows the tension between the free exercise and establishment clauses of the First Amendment, such as prayer in schools, academic study of religion, swearing, blasphemy, homosexual rights, abortion information, political endorsements, and discrimination.
Make Your Voice Be Heard
People have more opportunities than ever to get their message out. But how do all of us separate the wheat from the chaff? A panel discusses how you can be heard and how all of us can sort out the cacophony of voices.
Students’ Free Speech Rights and Responsibilities
A panel of students will share their thoughts and experiences related to the First Amendment and free speech issues on campus, including those pertaining to postings on social networks such as Facebook and MySpace, as well as issues of campus civility.
Student Media with Eleanor Clift
Representatives from Wright State’s student media will join Eleanor Clift for a discussion of the current state of free speech in broadcast and print journalism on campus.
Free Speech around the World: A Student Panel
International students will discuss free speech in their home countries, comparing their experiences at home to those here in the United States. Students will also share perceptions and misperceptions of free speech in their home countries and in the U.S.