UIS Speaker Series explores the right to free speech in a Constitution Day event

WHAT: The University of Illinois Springfield Engaged Citizenship Common Experience (ECCE) Speaker Series will take an in-depth look at free speech with committed peace activist John Tinker.

WHEN: 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 12, 2019

WHERE: UIS Brookens Auditorium, located on the lower level of Brookens Library

DETAILS: In February 1969, John Tinker made history when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that First Amendment rights applied in school, thus reminding young people that they have a voice.

Tinker’s case started when, at age 15, he wore a black arm band to school protesting the Vietnam War. He was threatened with suspension and challenged the school district in his right to protest.

In the 50 years that followed the Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District ruling, Tinker has remained a committed peace activist. He and his wife currently run a non-profit radio station in Fayette, Missouri with volunteers in their community.

As president of the John F. Tinker Foundation, he also helps educate students, teachers and school administrators regarding the First Amendment rights of students.

This event is cosponsored by the UIS Department of Legal Studies.

Individuals with disabilities who anticipate the need for accommodations should contact the UIS Speaker Series Office at 217/206-8507 or speakerseries@uis.edu in advance. For a list of other upcoming ECCE Speaker Series events, visit www.uis.edu/speakerseries/.