The USM Forum on American Democracy is a year-long public series designed to engage the University of Southern Maine and the broader community in thoughtful conversations on the foundations and future of democratic society. Hosted by President Edmondson, the Forum invites multiple perspectives on timely civic topics through keynote speakers, panel discussions, and campus-wide engagement. Nadine Strossen — Senior FIRE Fellow, John Marshall Harlan II Professor of Law Emerita at New York Law School, and former national ACLU President (1991–2008) — joins President Edmondson for a public dialogue on free expression, constitutional rights, and open inquiry. This session examines the pressing challenges to public discourse in the digital age, free speech under pressure, and how institutions and individuals can navigate today’s deeply polarized political landscape. This event is free and open to the public. Registration is required. A thank you to the Pond Family Foundation, the sponsors of the USM Forum on American Democracy. | 
