As universities face internal division, increased scrutiny, and existential threats, we must act with urgency to defend the core values of higher education—and to ensure that our institutions remain safe havens of open inquiry and intellectual courage.

At this pivotal moment for higher education—both nationally and across the UC system—we invite you to join us at on Thursday, May 1, 2025, for the May Day Conference on Free Inquiry. This system-wide gathering will convene UC faculty and national experts committed to academic freedom to examine the challenges we face and explore how we can collectively respond.

The event will be live-streamed. If you’re unable to attend in person, simply note that on the registration form, and we’ll share the link to the live stream.

Please register for the event by Friday, April 18. We hope you’ll be part of this timely conversation about the future of free inquiry.

When: Thursday, May 1, 2025 | 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM PT

Where: Chevron Auditorium, International House, UC Berkeley and via livestream