The Vice-Chancellor's Democracy Forum (VCDF) is UTS’s premier public lecture series. Each year, the Vice-Chancellor invites significant thinkers across various fields to engage in open dialogue on topics crucial to today's society and its advancement.

We’re excited to launch the 2025 Vice-Chancellor’s Democracy Forum with renowned historian, author, and cultural critic Sarah Churchwell. In her compelling talk, What stories does America tell itself - and who do they serve?, Sarah unpacks the national narratives that have shaped the U.S., revealing how they mask exclusion, inequality, and disinformation behind the language of freedom and opportunity.

These comforting fictions don’t just distort history; they create fertile ground for disinformation, allowing political demagogues, tech billionaires, and other bad-faith actors to manipulate public discourse and erode trust in democratic institutions. From education and research to journalism, the very systems designed to equip citizens with critical thinking are under attack.

Joining Sarah in conversation are Anna Funder and Roy Green, as they explore why long-standing democratic values and institutions face unprecedented threats—and what can be done to defend them.

There will also be an opportunity for an audience Q&A. If you’d like to submit a question for Sarah or the panel, you can do so here.

Don’t miss this chance to engage with some of today’s most influential thinkers on the urgent challenges shaping our world.

Date: Wednesday 14 May

Time: 6:00pm - 7:15pm (doors open 5:45pm)

Location: Chau Chak Auditorium, UTS Building 8, Level 2, Room 005. 14/28 Ultimo Road, Ultimo NSW 2007 Map

This is an event that you don't want to miss - register now!