Register now to join the conversation and engage with leaders shaping the future of free expression.

Legal and academic experts, journalists and higher education leaders shared their expertise and opinions on the shifting higher education landscape and the role of colleges and universities in our democracy.

Join legal experts, journalists and college and university leaders for a lively and dynamic half day of discussion.

Join the UC National Center for Free Speech and Civic Engagement for its sixth annual #speechmatters conference. 

Watch videos from all sessions of the 2023 #SpeechMatters conference: "Fighting for Our Democratic Freedoms."

Recordings of all sessions have just been made available — including the panel featuring President Drake.

Hosted by Center Executive Director Michelle Deutchman, each episode of "SpeechMatters" will feature conversations with thought leaders tackling the most pressing issues impacting free expression and democracy on campus and beyond.

UC President Michael V. Drake, M.D., and Johns Hopkins University President Ronald J. Daniels, J.D., will discuss the role that higher education plays in preserving democracy and preparing the next generation to lead.