Laughing Matters: Comedy, Policy, and the Future of Free Speech

Join FIRE and the R Street Institute for a special event to highlight the connection between comedy and free expression. From legends like Lenny Bruce and George Carlin to today’s comics, comedians have long tested boundaries and challenged audiences. This event will explore the ongoing pressures they face, from government scrutiny to campus controversy, and consider what happens when jokes become targets of censorship. The program will open with a live stand-up set from comedian Andrew Heaton, followed by a panel discussion featuring FIRE’s Nico Perrino, Ronald Collins, and R Street’s Spence Purnell, where they’ll discuss why protecting comedy helps safeguard free expression for all.

Reach out to us at events@fire.org to RSVP.