About Us

Despite the constitutionally enshrined right to free speech, Section 16(1)) of the Constitution as limited by Section 16(2), some politicians and commentators, social media users and institutions infringe or try to infringe upon those rights.

Vitriol is spewed on social media and people are constantly compelled to ‘obey’ a narrative with which they don’t agree. People are shamed for holding a different view and racism allegations are made glibly which can have devastating effects on a person’s career or status at an institution.

Strictures on free speech are increasingly being experienced in the context of schools and universities where Critical Race Theory, Critical Gender Theory or Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are being inserted into curricula.

With regard to the taking of legal action in any given situation. Our Advisory Board will assist in advising on FSU SA's response. Taking formal legal action will depend upon FSU SA having the resources to do so and whether legal action has a reasonable chance of success.

In contrast, exercising the right to free speech does bring with it the obligation not to defame anyone. We don’t believe that hate speech, or any other type of speech, should be criminalised. Civil remedies remain open to victims to pursue.