SpeechMatters

UC National Center for Free Speech and Civic Engagement

SpeechMatters is the official podcast of the University of California National Center for Free Speech and Civic Engagement. The podcast features thought leaders tackling the most pressing issues impacting free expression and democracy on campus, and beyond. Hosted by the Center’s Executive Director, Michelle Deutchman.

  1. 17 DE SET.

    “These Rights are Self-Evident, Not Self-Executing”

    For this special Constitution Day episode, SpeechMatters is joined by Dr. Colleen Shogan, the former Archivist of the United States, to reflect on the enduring legacy of America’s founding documents. From the urgent need for a national “civics renaissance” to the risks of political interference in how we teach history, the conversation offers powerful insights into what it means to safeguard our democratic ideals in an era of polarization, misinformation and rapid technological change. Episode Resources: America needs a civic education moonshot, before it’s too lateThe Declaration of Independence | National Archiveshttps://www.inpursuit.org/

    1h1min

  2. 27 DE AGO.

    Viewpoint Diversity in Higher Education

    Politicians, professors and pundits all seem to be talking about viewpoint diversity, and questioning whether it is a robust part of college and university life. But what does viewpoint diversity mean and how do we evaluate if it is alive and well on campus? Jon Shields, professor of government at Claremont McKenna College, shares his take on why having a diversity of views in the classroom serves democracy and offers ideas for fostering a climate of open inquiry and intellectual pluralism. Episode Resources: "Closed Classrooms? An Analysis of College Syllabi on Contentious Issues," Working Paper Draft, July 10, 2025, with Yuval Avnur and Stephanie Muravchik"Liberal Professors Can Rescue the GOP," New York Times, 23 March 2023“I’m a Conservative Professor Who Opposed Safe Spaces. I was Wrong.” New York Times, 7 April 2022

    56min

  3. 23 DE JUL.

    VOICE Summer Series: The (Re)Writing Migration Stories Project

    In this episode, we explore a powerful VOICE project that uses art and dialogue to empower immigration-impacted communities to share their stories. Guests Dr. Laura Enriquez, Giovanna Itzel and Breana Figueroa Perez discuss their approach to fostering reflection, connection and understanding through "artivism." They explore how creative expression can bridge divides, challenge perceptions and ignite social change, and offer listeners inspiration to explore their own narratives. Episode Resources: 2025 VOICE Recipients — UC National Center for Free Speech and Civic Engagement(Re)writing Migration Stories — Undocumented Student Equity Project

    39min

  4. 26 DE JUN.

    VOICE Summer Series: Civic Engagement Scholars Program

    SpeechMatters kicks off our VOICE Summer Series by exploring the impact of the Civic Engagement Scholars Program (CESP) — a course created and taught by UC Santa Barbara VOICE recipients Katya Armistead and Viviana Marsano. Guest host Melanie Ziment talks with them and their students Sofia Aliamus and Ashley Segat about civic engagement education and how the course is inspiring the next generation of citizens to be active participants in their communities. Episode Resources: Civic Engagement Scholars Program — VOICE Initiative ReportUndergraduate Student Advocacy in the University of California System: a Handbook by Emma Tolliver, UC National Center for Free Speech and Civic Engagement  CHANGE! A Student Guide to Social Action by Scott Myers-LiptonFacing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation by Dr. Tania Israel

    44min

  5. 28 DE MAI.

    Teaching and Learning in the Age of AI

    In this month’s episode, we explore how  generative artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping education — from how students learn to how educators teach. Digital Promise President and CEO Jean-Claude Brizard joins us to discuss the opportunities and challenges AI presents. Whether you are an educator, parent or student, or just curious about this innovative technology, the conversation offers valuable insights for navigating the future of education in the AI era. Episode Resources: Artificial Intelligence in Education – Digital Promise ‘We Have to Really Rethink the Purpose of Education’ - The New York Times

    44min

  6. 30 DE ABR.

    Telling the Story of Why Higher Ed Matters

    SpeechMatters welcomes Jeremy Young from the American Association of Colleges and Universities for a conversation about ongoing attacks on higher education — and what’s at risk if we don’t defend our colleges and universities. Jeremy discusses why it’s critical for higher education leaders to speak with a united voice, especially in light of growing government interference and censorship efforts under the current administration. Episode Resources A Call for Constructive Engagement | AAC&UEmerging From a Collective Silence, Universities Organize to Fight Trump - The New York Times

    37min

  7. 19 DE MAR.

    Listening to Lead: UC Student Regents on the Power of Engagement

    This month Michelle talks with UC Student Regent Josiah Beharry and Student Regent-Designate Sonya Brooks to explore the power of student leadership in shaping the university. Josiah and Sonya share their journeys to these roles, the challenges they have faced and strategies they have developed to advocate effectively. At a time when higher education is facing unprecedented challenges, their insights offer a hopeful vision for the positive power of speech. Episode Resources: How research prepared Sonya Brooks to represent UC students on the Board of Regents | University of CaliforniaUC Merced graduate student Josiah Beharry appointed as 2024-25 UC student Regent | University of California

    59min

  8. 19 DE FEV.

    Moderation: It's Not Just About Content

    TikTok is banned (and then not). Meta eliminates fact-checking. Policy-makers debate how to moderate content and provide a safe online experience. So much is happening in the world of online speech, which is why we invited John Perrino, Senior Policy and Advocacy Expert at Internet Society to join the pod. He will help clarify what’s at stake, why it matters and how using technology in moderation can improve our lives. Episode Resources: The Global Impact of a US TikTok Ban - Internet Society Using 'safety by design' to address online harms An overdue idea for making the internet safer just got the funding it needsPush for Independent Research in Tech Accountability Legislation

    49min
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Sobre

SpeechMatters is the official podcast of the University of California National Center for Free Speech and Civic Engagement. The podcast features thought leaders tackling the most pressing issues impacting free expression and democracy on campus, and beyond. Hosted by the Center’s Executive Director, Michelle Deutchman.

Informações

  • Criado por
    UC National Center for Free Speech and Civic Engagement
  • Anos de atividade
    2022 - 2025
  • Episódios
    42
  • Classificação
    Livre
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 UC National Center for Free Speech and Civic Engagement
  • Site do podcast
    SpeechMatters

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