An Unusual Combo: Running and Freedom

You may not associate 1st Amendment rights with running, but the third annual Free Speech Run does just that.

Dr. Glen Williams, associate professor of communication studies and race coordinator, launched the event three years ago with one expressed goal: to celebrate freedom. "The purpose of the run is to celebrate first amendment rights & their role in erecting and maintaining our other freedoms," Williams says.

The run takes place Saturday, Sept. 24, and is part of Family Weekend activities at Southeast Missouri State. The event, sponsored by the Departments of Communication and English, features a 5k competitive run and one mile ceremonial walk.

"The walk is not competitive but ceremonial--it's to honor those who've marched and walked for various causes in our nation's history," Williams says. "Selma, comes to mind."

To accent the theme of the run, local band Minds Above will perform live and speakers will give brief remarks about freedom of speech and its importance. "Live music, reminiscent of days of protest, adds some spice to the event," Williams adds.

After the run, participants can watch a replay of the event during a luncheon at Buffalo Wild Wings.

For more information or to download a registration form, log on to freespeechrun.org.