Free Speech in Sport Teach-Out

Free speech is essential for a healthy, vibrant, and democratic society. Yet there is growing debate on what constitutes free speech and what is protected speech under the First Amendment, particularly within the context of sport. This Teach-Out will prompt participants to think critically about the institution of sport, and how sport is a contested terrain in contemporary society with respect to free speech.

The Teach-Out will address the following questions:
- Is sport an appropriate venue for social and political activism?
- How is free “speech” embodied and enacted in sport, notably by the athletes themselves?
- What are the implications of free speech for sport stakeholders (athletes, managers, fans, sponsors, etc.)?

This Teach-Out is part of the University of Michigan 2018 Speech and Inclusion Series that aims to recognize differing views on speech and inclusion, to explore how those views play out in politics, culture, higher education, sports, and journalism, and to engage in productive conversations to promote a positive campus environment and help the community more deeply understand these complicated issues.