Free Speech Forum Updates

For Students

Welcome the Free Speech Forum, presented by FIRE. On this page, you'll find everything you need to know about attending the event.

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June 12, 2025

We’re gearing up to welcome students to American University in just a little over a week and are hard at work making sure the experience is one to remember. Whether you're attending the Forum or helping someone get ready, here’s everything you need to know.

Getting ready to pack?

We’ll provide a Forum T-shirt, drawstring backpack, water bottle, pen, notebook, and linens (two bedsheets, blanket, pillow, pillowcase, and a bath towel) — but here’s what to bring to be fully prepared.

Apparel

  • DC can be warm and humid in June, so pack breathable clothing and check the forecast before traveling.
  • Casual wear for day-to-day
  • Business casual outfits for three special events — like slacks, collared shirts, blouses, dresses, or nice jeans
  • Comfortable walking shoes

Toiletries & Personal Items

  • Essentials like shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, and sunscreen
  • Optional: extra linens, shower shoes, hand sanitizer, feminine products, and after-sun care

Electronics

  • Phone, laptop or tablet, chargers, and headphones
  • Optional: power bank, extension cord, fan, clip-on desk light

Medications

  • Be sure to pack any personal medications, including over-the-counter or prescription items. FIRE staff will have Tylenol and Advil available if needed, but are not permitted to administer any other medications.

Important Documents

  • ID/passport if needed for travel, and a copy of your health insurance card

Extras

  • Non-perishable snacks
  • Spending money (for snacks or souvenirs) and earplugs or sleep mask if desired

New Hotline Number

Alert! We’ve got a new number for the Forum’s 24/7 hotline: 320-FSF-HELP (320-373-4357).

You can reach us anytime between 9:00 a.m. EDT on June 22 and 2:00 p.m. EDT on June 28 at 320-FSF-HELP for urgent questions or concerns.

For anything non-urgent or if you're reaching out before or after those dates, please email us at conference@thefire.org.

Counselor Training

Recently, Free Speech Forum Counselors gathered in FIRE’s Philadelphia office for a jam-packed two-day training to prepare for camp. They heard from FIRE staff and outside experts on how to create a safe, fun, and educational environment.

Our counselors covered:

  • Camp policies and expectations, including safety guidelines.
  • Interactive activities designed to build friendships and community from day one.
  • Harassment prevention and camper behavior management, including techniques like positive reinforcement, redirection, and conflict resolution strategies.
  • Daily routines, dorm logistics, and meal transitions so everything runs smoothly.
  • How to foster open dialogue, especially during activities and discussions.

We're thrilled with the energy and ideas the counselors are bringing to the table — they’re ready and excited to meet students!

Chief People Officer Cait Scanlan speaks to 2025 Free Speech Forum Counselors in Philadelphia headquarters
Chief People Officer Cait Scanlan speaks to the 2025 cohort of Free Speech Forum counselors in our Philadelphia headquarters.

Know before you go

Everything Free Speech Forum attendees need to know before this year's event.

Student raises hand at FIRE Free Speech Leadership Summit in 2024
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