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.
JOIN US AT OUR NEXT INSPIRING EVENT
Samir Gandesha
Members Only Event
Identity Politics, Populism and Fascism - Then and Now
Mahon Hall 7:30pm January 9
Tickets can be purchased HERE
Why are populist movements gaining unprecedented power across democracies? Is liberal democracy under attack? What do the MAGA movement and growing authoritarianism in the United States mean for politics in Canada?
Samir Gandesha is Professor of Modern European Thought and Culture & Director of the Institute for the Humanities at Simon Fraser University. A leading scholar of modern European thought and critical theory, his work examines the psychological and political forces that drive populism, authoritarianism, and the resurgence of fascist ideas in contemporary life.
Professor Gandesha is the editor, most recently, of Spectres of Fascism: Historical, Theoretical, and International Perspectives (Pluto Press, 2020). As witnessed in the United States and other liberal democracies, Professor Gandesha traces how identity-based movements can both empower and divide, and how populist leaders exploit these tensions to consolidate power. A widely published public intellectual, Profesor Gandesha contributes to the Globe and Mail, Vancouver Sun, and international publications.
Join us for a timely, accessible, gripping discussion about democracy’s vulnerabilities and the urgent task of resisting authoritarian drift.
Salt Spring Forum is grateful for our sponsors Ganges Village Marketplace and Island Savings and for support from Harbour House Hotel, Auntie Pesto’s and Harbour Air.
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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...” ”