Yogyakarta, May 22, 2025 — On May 9, 2025, the American Studies Program successfully held a seminar titled Contemporary American Issues at the Soegondo Building 70X.
In addition to providing the audience with an opportunity to hear insights from Prof. Gade, the seminar also featured Achmad Munjid, Ph.D. as the second speaker, who delivered a talk on “Contestation on Freedom of Speech in the US Today.”
In the second session of the seminar, the discussion focused on how the concept of freedom of speech in the United States has significantly shifted—so much so that it appears citizens are only free to express their opinions as long as those opinions align with the voice of the government. This trend can be observed in various aspects of American society today.
The presentation also explored how the decline of democracy amidst the rise of globalization is driven by the emergence of anti-globalization sentiments in different parts of the world, resulting in fragmentation among individuals, including within the United States.
Beyond addressing current issues, the discussion also delved into broader events unfolding in the U.S. today and the underlying causes behind them. Examining this issue more deeply reveals that many of the changes occurring in America today are closely tied to the historical foundations of the nation.
Despite the many contradictions present in contemporary America, this discussion encouraged participants to think more critically about social equality, freedom of speech, and government transparency—both nationally and globally—as Indonesian citizens engaging with global discourse.
[Master of American Studies, Reni Renatawati]
