Baylor THIS MATTERS Panel to Discuss Charlie Hedbo, Faith and Freedom of Speech

WACO, Texas (Jan. 27, 2015) -- THIS MATTERS, a series of dialogues at Baylor University that connect leaders from diverse perspectives to offer context to society's most challenging questions, will explore the intersection of freedom of speech, religion and the role of satire in society during a panel discussion at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 26, in the SUB Den.

The tragedy in Paris, France, at the offices of the French satirical magazine “Charlie Hedbo” has brought to the forefront issues related to freedom of the press and their interaction with religion. The discussion will explore the challenges of using satire to address social compelling topics and the peripheral issues that emerge as a result.

The panelists – Robert Darden, associate professor of journalism, public relations and new media; Sergiy Kudelia, Ph.D., assistant professor of political science; and Candi Cann, Ph.D., assistant professor of religion in the Baylor Interdisciplinary Core – will offer initial perspectives from their expertise concerning international terrorism, religious differences and journalistic responsibilities. This will be followed by questions from the audience.

The discussion is open to all students, faculty and staff.

Questions for the panelists can be submitted through the @ThisMattersBU twitter account or in person during the discussion. A follow-up discussion will take place for students from 7 to 8:30pm Wednesday, Jan. 28, in the White Room in the SUB to more intimately explore the topic.