When we talk about the Imaginairium as showcasing “Bright Ideas in Dark Times,” this show is what we mean. Freedom of expression is central to fuelling vibrant democracy. But how to respond in the wake of the flooding of the news zone with disinformation and misinformation, along with the escalation of authoritarianism?

We are at a crucial inflection point––and who better to guide us forward than Elamin Abdelmahmoud (host of CBC’s Commotion), New York Times veteran war correspondent Scott Anderson (who has contextualized complex declines and falls on the world stage), Globe and Mail editorial cartoonist Gabrielle Drolet, and David Moscrop (author of Too Dumb for Democracy?).

Let’s take this passage from Moscrop’s Sept. 18 Substack as the starting point for enlightening dialogue: “Moments like the one we’re in right now call for a cross-partisan, cross-ideological, and culturally ecumenical commitment to fundamental speech and expression rights, as well as a clarification of their limits—the point at which speech tips over to incitement to violence or yields to literal violence. In an age dominated by social media platforms and algorithms that generate profit from inducing people to become their worst selves, the solidification of toxic partisan identities, rising reactionary prudishness, and unchecked money driving shady agendas, the work of committing to free speech and expression is crucial, even if it requires a coalition of principled believers who would otherwise have little in common and may not share anything else ever again.”

Note: This special show replaces The Confabulous E. Jean Carroll. Due to a travel conflict, Carroll will instead be appearing in Calgary on Nov. 7 at DJD Dance Centre. Her show is still included for free as part of the festival, year-round and all-inclusive passes. Please contact boxoffice@wordfest.com with questions.