The Liberal Agenda – Keith Locke Memorial Free Speech Debate (minus the Free Speech Union)
New debater joins the Keith Locke Memorial Debate 2026
Yasmine Serhan, respected trade union organiser, educator, social justice advocate and Green list candidate has joined the team for the negative in the 2026 Keith Locke Memorial Debate.
Come along on July 2 to hear Yasmine join with team members Simon Wilson and Anjum Rahman to argue that Hate Speech Laws do not threaten Free Speech.
But wait – there’s more!
Martyn Bomber Bradbury, Verity Johnson and Thomas Beagle are equally determined to persuade us that Hate Speech Laws are a definite threat to free speech.
And moderator Jane Kelsey will make sure no one gets away with ANYTHING.
Date: Thursday, July 2, 2026
Location: Stone Lecture theatre, The University of Auckland Law School – Building 801, 9 Eden Crescent, Auckland 1010 and online
Time: Drinks and canapes from 6pm, Debate from 7pm.
Tickets
Your vote counts!
As with last year, voting on the moot will take place before and after the debate. The team that swings opinion the most, wins.
Voting is open to in-person and live-stream attendees.
Please note: as this year’s event is catered, there is a modest ticket charge rather than a cash bar.
Tickets:
$20, $10 unwaged
Seats are limited
For Keith’ free speech’ was fundamental to democracy and something that progressive movements have fought for over generations.
As someone who once walked along Broadway in body-paint and g-string after losing an election bet, he was also absolutely prepared to find the humour in any situation and double-down rather than backing out.
Let’s see how well our debaters follow his example!
Join us to remember Keith’s life and work, and promote the importance of open political debate.
Moderator: Jane Kelsey
For the affirmative: Martyn Bradbury, joined by Verity Johnson and Thomas Beagle
For the negative: Simon Wilson, joined by Anjum Rahman and Yasmine Serhan
Everyone is welcome, regardless of your views or place on the political spectrum.
This event will be live-streamed. The link will be available 24 hours before the debate at: keithlocke.org.nz
More information:
