Keynote speaker Simon Tam
Bringing punk rock energy to stages worldwide.
Redefining what is possible for civil liberties, intellectual property law, and art.
“Dance rock band front man Simon Tam sought to trademark The Slants. His aim was to reappropriate a term long used to disparage a minority group and to render the term a badge of pride. All of us agreed.”
— Ruth Bader Ginsburg
UNFORGETTABLE SHOW-STOPPING KEYNOTES
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MAKING HISTORY AND CHANGING LAWS AT THE SUPREME COURT
Gripping, funny, enlightening, and ultimately uplifting, Simon proves that no obstacle is too difficult to conquer - as long as you have a little heart and a lot of rock n' roll. Audiences get an insight look at the landmark Supreme Court case that defined First Amendment and intellectual property law.
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A JOURNEY OF SONGS AND STORY
An electrifying and inspirational keynote incorporating music that will have audiences laughing, crying, and cheering as they learn about the power of persistence, empathy, and connection. It’s like Broadway theatre meets TED talk.
Over 1,000 standing ovations across four continents. -
SHOWING WHAT IS POSSIBLE IN ARTS AND ACTIVISM
For over two decades, Simon has defied limits in the world of art and activism. From starting a record label at 13 to launching a nonprofit that has helped propel artists across North America , Simon shares timely lessons for civic engagement and artistic development.
What people have said about Simon Tam:
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“No constitution, no bill of rights alone can guarantee human freedom. People like Simon Tam…are willing to risk their security – and sometimes their lives – make the Bill of Rights not just empty promises on paper, but a living reality to expand freedom for the rest of the nation as well.”
The Bill of Rights: A User’s Guide by Linda Monk
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"The story of The Slants is the perfect vehicle to discuss the realities of being an Asian artist in America."
Ronny Chieng, The Daily Show
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“Simon Tam has been an evangelist for free speech and equality as mutually reinforcing rights. He has given several terrific TED talks which I highly recommend."
Nadine Strossen, law professor and former president of the ACLU
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“This was the best CLE presentation that they have ever attended.”
Hyung Steele, Partner at Pepper Hamilton LLP
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"Out of all the presentations I’ve seen in 26 years at Willamette, that was definitely one of the very best. [This] story is incredibly important and inspirational."
Peter Wogan, Professor of Global Cultural Studies
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“One of the most inspiring people I have ever heard speak.”
member, Leadership Council on Legal Diversity
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“The Tam case has forged a hybrid trademark and free speech right.”
Timothy T. Hsieh, NYU Journal of IP & Ent. Law
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“This presentation of stories and songs will have you on the edge of your seat.”
Northeastern University School of Law
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“Simon Tam’s legal fight turned an obscure trademark law into mainstream conversation about free speech and identity.”
Elizabeth M. Squires, Knowledge at Wharton
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"Of note is Tam’s effort to register 'The Slants' for his Asian rock-dance band in an effort to reclaim a piece of cultural heritage for his group and drain the slur of its 'denigrating force.'"
John A. Squires, Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
Simon Tam is one of the most in-demand speakers on free speech, intellectual property, and the arts. His thought-provoking style is entertaining, inspirational, and unforgettable, landing him a spot on Forbes’ list of 8 “TEDx Talks Well Worth Watching.”
From the TED stage to Supreme Court and from anime conventions to universities world wide, he has received over 1,000 standing ovations across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.
Simon will leave your audience with fresh perspectives and stories that will drive conversations for years to come.
Simon’s story and work has been featured in 3,500 media outlets across 125+ countries, including:
Hire Simon to speak.
If you’re interested in having Simon Tam speak at your event, please complete the information here. All opportunities, including classroom visits, virtual events, and charity/cause-driven events will be considered.