Keynote: Clashes on Campus – Student Protest & the First Amendment

Date/Time
Date(s) - 09/25/2024
5:15 pm - 6:30 pm

Protests have long been a vital part of American society and politics, from the “Germantown Protest” of 1688 to the Civil Rights Era and beyond. In recent years, they’ve become even more widespread and prominent. As campuses become battlegrounds for debates on the Israeli/Palestinian conflict, the presidential election, and other cultural issues, the First Amendment plays a crucial role in both protecting political expression and protecting those who challenge it. But this polarized moment has strained our ability to engage in discourse across differences. It has highlighted the need for stronger civic education to equip young people as effective activists and advocates.

Universities are essential to students’ civic education, but according to the 2025 College Free Speech Rankings Report there has been an increase in attempts to block controversial campus speakers. Tensions surrounding protest and the free expression on campus have resulted in student arrests, sanctions, and the resignations of university presidents, as well as students saying that certain topics are difficult to “have an open and honest conversation about on campus.” This keynote will explore the role of universities, students, and others in navigating complex cultural issues in an increasingly divided world.

Keynote speaker: Lindsie Rank, M.A., J.D., Director of Campus Rights Advocacy at The FIRE (The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression)

Moderator: Evan Ringel, J.D., Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Media Law, Department of Communication, Appalachian State University.

A Q&A session will follow prepared remarks, so come with your questions!

This event is open to the public and does not require registration. Students can earn Campus Life Experience (CLE) credit.

Video of the event:

This is just one of many events we are hosting on First Amendment Day!