Unforgettable community discussions and respectful, inclusive debates
The Salt Spring Forum brings diverse perspectives on important issues to a community known for its civic engagement and openness to new ideas.
The Forum has hosted some of the world's leading authors, artists, scientists, political leaders and activists. Our annual speaker series and members-only salons present thought-provoking discussions on some of the greatest issues of our times.
Forum events take place in a truly participatory discussion format that ensures respectful dialogue, a wide-range of perspectives and ideas, and mutual learning.
We invite you to learn more about the Salt Spring Forum. The best way to become involved is to attend one of our many events. We also encourage you to become a member and support our work with a tax-deductible donation.
OUR NEXT EVENT
Peter Klein in discussion with Michael Byers.
Trump 2.0
It’s chaos. Can Canada weather the storm?
Tickets Available HERE
The Trump administration is shaking the political, legal and economic order of both the United States and the world, leaving politicians, diplomats, corporate leaders and the public struggling to understand what’s happening—and how best to respond.
For Canada, a relationship that was secure for a century now seems dangerously insecure. Could we really become the 51st state?
Will tariffs make us weaker, or more united and resolved?
How might developments in the United States affect this year’s federal election in Canada?
American institutions are being hollowed out. A new generation of oligarchs stands to benefit. Is US democracy at risk? Is Vladimir Putin pulling the strings?
Two Salt Spring Islanders have a unique combination of expertise on these now-existential issues.
Peter Klein is an Emmy Award-winning journalist, documentary filmmaker, and professor. He began his career as a war reporter for US public radio and The Christian Science Monitor, including in Bosnia and Haiti. A long-time investigative producer at the CBS News program 60 Minutes, Klein has spent the last two years as the executive editor of investigations at NBC News. He is also the director, most recently, of Bribe, Inc., which is screening around the world and at the Salt Spring Documentary Film Festival.
Michael Byers holds the Canada Research Chair in Global Politics and International Law at UBC. Prior to 2005, he was a Professor of Law and Director of Canadian Studies at Duke University. Byers writes for the Globe and Mail newspaper and speaks on CBC Radio about current and controversial issues.
Together Peter and Michael will lead a fascinating discussion on the current state of chaos in world politics—and how Canada can weather the storm.
We are waiting for confirmation but at present the candidate’s debate looks like being from 4.30pm to 6pm on April 15th at Fulford hall. More information to follow.
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The Forum has hosted some of the world's leading intellectuals, activists, political leaders, and thinkers.
““I am proud of what Forum does. And feel enlightened, broadened, glad to hear the unvarnished experiences of the speakers...” ”