Sydney Writers' Festival: Brave Conversations: When Words Offend

Words have power. They can wound, provoke, mobilise, liberate – and divide.

In a moment when public debate feels increasingly polarised and the boundaries of what is considered ‘offensive’ are constantly shifting, how do we decide what should be said, what should be challenged and what – if anything – should be forbidden?

Drawing on diverse lived experiences and perspectives, our panellists Waleed Aly, Cordelia Fine, Antoinette Lattouf, Greg Sheridan and Amy Thunig-McGregor, explore questions at the heart of democratic life: What is the distinction between offence and hate speech? How do we balance freedom of expression with the protection of dignity and safety? Who gets to decide what is ‘safe’ – and what role and responsibilities do writers’ festivals have in a democracy under pressure?

In the spirit of the Brave Conversations Project, this session creates a space to disagree well – to listen, question and remain curious across difference. Together, we will consider not only what we say, but how we respond when words offend and how those responses might strengthen Australian society and democracy, rather than fracture it.

Join Waleed, Cordelia, Antoinette, Greg and Amy in conversation with Brave Conversations hosts Daniel Heller and Farid Zaid.