Panel: The Berkeley Free Speech Movement—Then and Now

Saturday, 9/12/2026
3:00 - 4:30

Suitable for:

Adults

Hear stories and insights from participants in the Berkeley 1964 Free Speech Movement (FSM). Haight-Ashbury tour guide Rodney Paul moderates a panel discussion with FSM veterans including Anita Medal and Steve Lustig. Topics will include key moments of the FSM period, how lifting free speech restrictions provided a platform for the activism that followed, threats to free speech in our society today and lessons the FSM provides regarding the protection of basic civil liberties.

Connect: Rodney Paul - Website | Free Speech Movement Archives - Website

History

Learn more about local history.

Power to the People

A series of meaningful, civic-minded programs that empower people to effectively use their voice.

Spotlight

This program is sponsored by Friends of the San Francisco Public Library.

Attending Programs

All programs are drop-in (no registration necessary) unless otherwise noted. All SFPL locations are wheelchair accessible. For accommodations (such as ASL), call (415) 557-4557 or contact accessibility@sfpl.org. Requesting at least 3 business days in advance will help ensure availability.

This program will be conducted in English unless otherwise noted.

Notice: This event may be filmed or photographed. By participating in this event, you consent to have your likeness used for the Library’s archival purposes and promotional materials. If you do not want to be photographed, please inform a staff person or the photographer. A sticker will be provided to help identify you so that we can avoid capturing your image.

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