Speakers' Corner

Tuesday, 24th of May 2016

A few weeks ago, when London was stealing all Lisbon's sun and warmth, I went for a long walk crossing the entire Hyde Park, which is over 2.50 kilometres or 625 acres. I wanted to go and see the tradition of open-air public speaking at the park, where it all started. 

The area where the debates take place is called Speakers' Corner and the most famous one is located on the north-east edge of Hyde Park, nearest Marble Arch and Oxford Street.

The discussions are not scheduled, meaning that anyone who wishes to speak can turn up freely, step on the small podium and make a speech of any subject they wish, as long as it is within the law. There are times when the police is present to ensure control and avoid riots or conflicts, although their practice is mainly tolerant.

Since everyone has the right to free speech, it is expected tolerance from the members of the audience that gathers around, making it a unwritten rule than no one should be excluded for their personal views or beliefs. It is, however, possible to contest what it is being said and when a person feels offended they may make a complaint to the authorities.

Most events take place on Sunday, after 13h30, but if you go around 17h you will mainly catch people making a speech in arab.

It is very interesting to see how this tradition has survived so many years, it is indeed a part of England's history. And definetely exciting to be in the same place where figures as George Orwell and Karl Marx have spoken before.

From a girl glad for free speech,

Mariana Fidalgo