AF-Austin: Defending Debate | A Short Documentary & Discussion

AF Austin: Defending Debate | A Short Documentary & Discussion
March 4 | 6:30–8:30 p.m. CT

Join AF-Austin for an evening centered on one of the most urgent questions of our time: Can Americans still disagree without tearing each other apart?

This special event features a screening of Defending Debate, a powerful short documentary by Emergent Order Foundation and Dad Saves America. The film examines a national debate league championship and explores what’s truly at stake for civil discourse, education, and the future of open inquiry in America.

Following the screening, attendees will hear from featured speaker John Papola, Founder and CEO of Emergent Order Foundation and host of Dad Saves America. A filmmaker and serial media entrepreneur, Papola is widely known for his Radical Discourse rap videos (including the iconic Keynes vs. Hayek) and for documentaries such as At The Fork, The Pursuit, Madigan, To My Father (starring Academy Award winner Troy Kotsur), and the forthcoming Defending Debate. Prior to founding Emergent Order, Papola built his career creating award-winning campaigns and docuseries at MTV, Nickelodeon, and Spike TV.

This event brings together people who care deeply about free expression, honest disagreement, and the health of American civic life. Expect a compelling film, thoughtful discussion, and a room full of people committed to keeping debate civil, substantive, and productive. Your free ticket includes light bites and refreshments.

Thank you to our sponsors and partners, the Emergent Order Foundation and the Texas Public Policy Foundation, for making this event possible!

Questions about this event? Reach out to Ivy at ivy@americasfuture.org.

Parking information:

There are two parking garages available to access the Zlotnik Ballroom Level. The first is the AT&T Conference Center Garage on 20th and University. The second is the Rowling Hall Garage, located just south of the AT&T Conference Center on 20th and Guadalupe.

1) AT&T Conference Center Parking

Once parked, take the conference center elevators (elevator bank on the west side of the garage) up to Level M1, and take the escalator down to the Zlotnik Ballroom Level.

2) Rowling Hall Parking

Park only on B5 and B6, then take the south-side elevators to B4 to reach the Zlotnik Ballroom Level.

Get your tickets on Eventbrite now!