Exercise your first-amendment rights and relive the days of soapbox oratory and public debates that immortalized Washington Square Park. Celebrate Chicago's long history as a hub of free speech with soap boxers and a compelling main debate.
This year, relive the Lincoln-Douglas debates in honor of the Lincoln Bicentennial, with Michael Krebs taking the part of Lincoln, and Larry Diemer that of Douglas. Author Alex Kotlowitz will speak about his latest, and sign books before the debates, from 12 to 1 pm, and Rick Kogan will MC the Debates as they kick off at 1:00pm. The Altgeld Freedom of Speech Award will be presented to Barbara Thill, a Lincolnshire high school teacher who actions to support free speech in her school's student newspaper embody the spirit of Bughouse Square and Governor John Peter Altgeld.
Bring your loudest heckling voice, and join in the soapbox debates. This year's soapbox speakers include:
- Jorge Mujica on immigration rights
- "The Parking Meter Geek" on Chicago's parking meter troubles
- Nora Rowley on Burma
- Herbert Caplan on the problems of artificial turf in Chicago's parks
Prizes will be awarded to the best speakers and hecklers. Black Bear Combo will provide musical entertainment and Chase Root Beer will be on hand with hot dogs, fresh squeezed lemonade, and root beer floats.
Admission is free. For more information, call (312) 255-3700