UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- Penn State will host a panel discussion, “The First Amendment and Diversity and Inclusion,” focusing on the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and its intersection with diversity and inclusion, from 7 to 9 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 27, in Freeman Auditorium of the HUB-Robeson Center.

The event is free and open to the public, and also will be livestreamed at http://allin.psu.edu/firstamendmentevent/ for faculty and staff members at all Penn State campuses to view.

The First Amendment guarantees freedoms concerning religion, speech, assembly and the press. The panelists will discuss possible issues, conflicts and challenges that may be raised in the context of diversity and inclusion, and how to navigate these challenges, at a public university like Penn State. Over the past year, the fight over free speech and expression has taken center stage on campuses across the U.S. Protests of controversial speakers, bans on offensive books and dedicated zones for student activism have become common occurrences.

Hosted by Penn State President Eric J. Barron and Vice Provost for Educational Equity Marcus Whitehurst, the panel discussion is part of “All In at Penn State: A Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion,” an ongoing, University-wide initiative that brings students, faculty and staff together to show their commitment to cultivating a diverse and inclusive environment.

Panelists include:

• Carla D. Pratt, associate dean for academic affairs and educational equity, and Nancy J. LaMont Faculty Scholar and professor of law;
• Stephen F. Ross, professor of law and Lewis H. Vovakis Distinguished Faculty Scholar;
• Victor C. Romero, associate dean of academic affairs, professor of law and Maureen B. Cavanaugh Distinguished Faculty Scholar; and
• Robert D. Richards, John and Ann Curley Professor of First Amendment Studies.

Stephen S. Dunham, Penn State vice president and general counsel, will moderate the discussion.

The event is sponsored by the Office of the President, the Office of Educational Equity, the College of Communications, Penn State Dickinson Law, Penn State Law, and the Paul Robeson Cultural Center.