Free Speech Archives

Discover The History Of Protest

Overseen by American INSIGHT’s Board of Directors since 2005, research for the Free Speech Storyline by American INSIGHT Interns continues today as an integral part of our mission to “Promote the history and values of Free Speech, Human Rights, and the Rule of Law.”

The Free Speech Storyline traces the bloody path of sacrifice and self-empowerment as the concept of Free Speech makes its way from the invention of the printing press through the centuries to become the core value of the American Constitution.

Following this spectacular story, as first depicted in a series of murals painted by 27 year old Philadelphia artist, Violet Oakley, the message is as relevant today as it was when it first appeared on the walls of the Pennsylvania State Capitol Building in 1906.  American INSIGHT Interns interviewed over a dozen scholars before developing the script of our Free Speech Storyline.

American INSIGHT’s Free Speech ARCHIVES contain the rare video footage, edited and unedited original materials, audio tapes, sound tracks, documentaries, interviews, historical research, letters, photos and memorabilia of prominent poets, writers, artists, filmmakers, and media celebrities produced by American INSIGHT during its four decade history of promoting Free Speech and the Spoken Word.