College hosts fourth annual exhibit about freedom of speech

North Central College will celebrate Free Speech Week, observed nationwide and on campus Oct. 20-26, with an exhibit in the College’s Oesterle Library Gallery, 320 E. School St.

The campus community is invited to visit the exhibit and view, read and listen to the various items on display. Coordinated by John Stanley, North Central’s assistant professor speech communication, assistant director of forensics and director of individual events, the exhibit will feature several posters that relate to different issues concerning freedom of speech. Each poster includes questions that are designed to promote reflection and discussion by viewers about freedom of speech issues, such as flag burning, artistic freedom, clothing as freedom of speech, broadcast speech, protesting and the freedom to read.

Also included in the exhibit is a banned books display; Banned Books Week took place Sept. 22-28. Next to various books are folded cards explaining why the book was banned. Viewers are encouraged to write their own responses on sheets of paper at the tables and on the whiteboard within the gallery around the display.

In addition, an ongoing presentation addressing some issues that aren’t considered protected speech will be on display with quotations about free speech to encourage further reflection.

This is the fourth year the College has hosted an exhibit as part of the nationwide celebration of freedom of speech. North Central is consistently recognized as an exemplary program celebrating free speech issues.

For more information contact Stanley at 630-637-5371. To learn more about Free Speech Week visit freespeechweek.org.