Events › Human Rights Speaker Series: Freedom of Expression

Free speech is the cornerstone of democracy… so why does it seem like it’s constantly under threat? From banning books to cancel culture, censorship is on the rise. Join us for an exploration of intellectual freedom – and learn what you can do to protect it.

Vicky Varga is the Executive Director of Collections, Marketing, and Technology at the Edmonton Public Library. Vicky holds a B.A. in English literature and a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of Alberta. Through both degrees, Vicky focused her course work on the intersection of the humanities and technology. She is passionate about intellectual freedom and enjoys facilitating understanding of its nuances through conversation.

Stephen Gibbs has been a selector in the Collections department at Calgary Public Library since 2012. Stephen selects items for all ages, in all formats and specializes in digital content. His previous roles at the Calgary Public Library have included children and youth services and community outreach. Stephen holds a B.A. in English Literature from the University of Guelph, and a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of Western Ontario.

Presented in partnership with Calgary Public Library, and with the support of the Isadore and Florence Burstyn Memorial Fund, KSW Calgary Holocaust Education & Commemoration Endowment Fund, and donors to the Human Rights and Holocaust Education Fund at the Calgary Public Library Foundation.