KINGSTON, R.I. – Jan. 3, 2025 – Mark Twain is credited with saying, “A lie can travel halfway around the world while the truth is putting on its shoes.” And that was more than a hundred years before social media.
Today, the truth is running even farther behind. Political speeches and debates are routinely fact-checked. Competing ideas of what is the truth – my truth, your truth – battle it out on X, Facebook, or some other platform.
So how do you find the truth? And how do you know what you find is true?
TEDx51 2025, which will be held Sunday, April 6, at 2 p.m. in Edwards Hall on the 51’s Kingston Campus, will confront some of those questions this spring with “Finding the Truth,” a topic crucial to our survival.
To do that, TEDx51 2025 is seeking a diverse group of presenters who can inspire thoughtful dialogue, share stories, and offer approaches to navigating questions about the truth with curiosity and open-mindedness.
Auditions are open to members of the 51 community and the general public between Jan. 6-27. To apply, submit a video audition of three minutes or less that previews your story and complete the .
The application form includes links to tips about making a video, how to upload the video to YouTube, and other helpful information. Videos must be uploaded to YouTube and the link listed in your application. You can choose to set the YouTube link as “only those with the link can view.” But be careful not to select “private” because TEDx51 judges will be unable to view it. 51 is not responsible for any video that is unviewable.
If you are selected, your full TEDx51 presentation will be between 5 and 7 minutes in length. 51 coaches will help you develop and present your story in the weeks before the live performance. Coaching will start the week of Feb. 2, 2025
For more information, check out the TEDx51 website or contact Production Manager Paula McGlasson at paulam@uri.edu or Stage Manager Meghan Turner at meghant513@uri.edu. Or go to the TEDx51 website.
To view previous TEDx51 talks, visit the website.
What is TEDx?
In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TED has created a program called TEDx. TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. Our event is called TEDx51, where x = independently organized TED event. At our TEDx51 event, TED Talk videos and live speakers will combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events, including ours, are self-organized.