The Importance of Freedom of Speech to Defend Human Rights

Whether it is in faith communities, social justice spaces, or academia, the rise of right-wing religious nationalism around the world has presented a serious threat to freedom of speech. The presenters at this session come from distinct personal, professional, and religious perspectives, but are united in speaking out in support of religious pluralism in India, the world’s largest democracy, where human rights and religious freedom are under attack. In this session, presenters identify and discuss the censorship, threats, and harassment they face from right-wing groups and individuals who have sought to curtail their freedom of speech. Presenters also share how their religion, faith, or sense of ethics supports them in continuing to assert their freedom of speech in spite of the risks.