Ideas

Alex Neve, a seasoned human rights lawyer and former leader at Amnesty International Canada, captivates audiences with compelling stories of resilience and activism. He reflects on the heartbreaking beauty of communities like Jorlo, where names symbolize rights and memory. Neve highlights the power of belief in driving grassroots movements, from Anti-Apartheid to contemporary Indigenous resistance. With poignant anecdotes of art transforming personal pain into advocacy, he showcases how local actions ripple globally, igniting collective hope and solidarity.

In this engaging talk, human rights lawyer Alex Neve explores the idea that our inherent rights are yours from birth, not a privilege to be earned. He shares eye-opening stories from his visits to camps in Syria and highlights the struggles of Canadians caught in geopolitical crossfires. Neve critiques how power creates a 'club' of rights based on race and wealth, while discussing the importance of grassroots activism. His passionate discourse challenges listeners to reflect on the universality of human rights and the collective action needed to uphold them.

Alex Neve, a human rights lawyer and former Secretary General of Amnesty International Canada, explores the pivotal years following WWII that reshaped human rights. He discusses the origins of these rights and highlights the importance of historical context. Neve examines how concepts like dignity and reciprocity connect diverse cultures and impact current crises. He reflects on the breakthrough of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and its contradictions with colonial legacies. The conversation urges a renewed commitment to uphold these universal ideals in today’s world.

Alex Neve, a seasoned human rights lawyer and former Secretary General of Amnesty International Canada, dives deep into the challenges facing universal human rights. He discusses the disturbing realities of refugees losing rights at borders and highlights the Rohingya crisis as a stark example of these failures. Neve passionately addresses the rising threats of disinformation and hate that erode equality. He ultimately emphasizes the importance of grassroots movements and civil society in reclaiming accountability to revive faith in human rights.

In this engaging discussion, Alex Neve, a renowned human rights lawyer and 2025 CBC Massey Lecturer, reflects on pivotal inspirations from his youth, including his mother’s daycare activism that sparked his passion for justice. He shares how his father's values and law school talks transformed his view of human rights as a tool for activism. Neve also explores vital issues like Indigenous rights, the ongoing fight against gender-based violence, and the importance of community involvement in human rights advocacy.

Tina Antolini, a talented narrator known for her engaging voice work, leads a discussion on the captivating history of buttons. They explore how buttons represent control, freedom, and social hierarchies, from their 19th-century origins to their role in modern digital interfaces. The conversation dives into moral implications highlighted by Milgram’s experiment, revealing buttons as aspects of obedience and detachment. Dystopian visions illustrate the consequences of relying too heavily on these seemingly simple devices, making it a thought-provoking listen.

In this enlightening discussion, historian Michael Petrou from the Canadian War Museum shares insights from his In Their Own Voices project, which captures veterans' personal narratives about their military experiences. He emphasizes the power of oral history in revealing emotional truths often lost in traditional records. Petrou delves into the fragility of memory, the complexities of transitioning from soldier to civilian life, and the nuanced portrayals of pride and trauma. By amplifying overlooked voices, he highlights the broader societal impacts of military service on individuals and communities.

In this thought-provoking discussion, historian Michael Petru shares insights from his oral-history interviews with veterans. Poet and Afghan war veteran Benjamin Hertwig expresses his mixed feelings about formal rituals, preferring personal remembrance over public ceremonies. WWII veteran Blanche Bennett highlights the need for women’s contributions to be recognized, while Russell Kaye recalls his emotional return to D-Day sites. Together, they explore the complex relationship veterans have with Remembrance Day and emphasize the importance of educating future generations about the true costs of war.

Michael Petru, a historian at the Canadian War Museum and former war correspondent, leads an oral history project exploring veterans' post-service experiences. He discusses the significance of preserving narratives not of combat, but of life afterward. The conversation includes emotional insights on grief for fallen comrades, the unsettling transition to civilian life, and the enduring impact of PTSD. Petru highlights how military service reshapes identity and societal perspectives, reflecting on the mixed legacy of experiences in places like Afghanistan.

Explore the intricate relationship between desire and power, spotlighting the rise of tyrants like Deoches in ancient times. Delve into Cambyses II's chaotic rule, revealing the madness that can ensue from absolute power. Discover how tyranny thrives during societal fear and the psychological toll it takes on individuals. Learn from Xerxes' tragic downfall due to hubris and the need for empathy. Finally, ponder the importance of political engagement in combating modern despotism and ensuring accountability in leadership.