In recent history, we have witnessed silencing of dissenting viewpoints from across the political spectrum on college campuses around the country. Disinvitations of speakers, dismissal of faculty, speech code policies, and ‘safe spaces’ have challenged campus free speech. If the ideals of the academy are to seek truth and create knowledge, dissenting viewpoints are an essential element of education. Kris will discuss the historical context of intellectual freedom, and the distinction between protesting and silencing ideas we find objectionable. Kris will also consider approaches to safeguarding freedom of expression so that we can think and learn across ideological and political boundaries.

Kris Hege earned a Master of Arts with a focus on Feminist and Justice Studies from Goddard Graduate Institute. Kris is a doctoral candidate at Union Institute and University conducting research in Education Studies, and Humanities and Culture. A Data Engineer at Sonnax Transmission, Kris volunteers at the Brattleboro Community Justice Center and is LGBTQ Outreach Chair for (n)Ever a Leader Inc., an organization committed to ethical and creative leadership training.

The Event is free, please RSVP if you are planning on attending:

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