A planned event at Calne Town Hall this Friday 20th June, featuring controversial political commentator Carl Benjamin has ignited a firestorm of criticism.
Tickets are currently being sold for the evening talk - "British Identity and the Modern Male," which invites attendees "open and interested in ideas and the restoration of our great land and people."
Benjamin, also known as Sargon of Akkad on YouTube, is known for his right-wing views and critiques of feminism, identity politics, and political correctness.
News of the event quickly spread on social media, prompting immediate backlash from local residents. Critics questioned the Calne Town Council's decision to allow Benjamin to use their premises, accusing them of providing a platform for "misogynistic" and "harmful" views.
Calne Town Hall is a venue for various community events and is available for hire for private and commercial events. This event has been booked and organised by Violette Simpson who told us it is the first in a series of events she is looking to hold.
Former Mayor Jon Fisher voiced his concerns at a Town Council Meeting last night, urging the council to cancel the booking. He argued that Benjamin's history of targeting women and marginalised communities "actively contributes to a culture that puts dignity and safety at risk in every community."
He added, "You can’t claim to stand with women, with LGBTQ+ people, with vulnerable communities - and then hand the mic to someone who openly undermines them."
Cllr Bobby Seymour told us: "I'm concerned about this event being held at the Town Hall, which should remain a neutral and safe space for all residents. It is scheduled for 7pm on a Friday, when many young people are in the town centre for the OpenBlue youth bus."
However, Cllr Robert MacNaughton told us: "I think it should go ahead, everyone is entitled to their opinion and we must protect our freedom of speech. I imagine it will only be supporters who attend so it is unlikely to cause anyone else a problem."
Event organiser Violette Simpson has defended the event, stating it is part of a series aimed at fostering "thoughtful conversation on culture, philosophy, and lifestyle" in response to growing concerns about mental health, social disconnection, and the erosion of open discourse.
Ms Simpson emphasised the importance of diverse perspectives, even uncomfortable ones, and that the event is not about giving answers but about opening doors for meaningful discussions.
She further argued the event is about empowering individuals and building a safer, stronger, and more resilient town.
The controversy raises questions about free speech, the responsibility of public venues, and the potential impact of platforming controversial figures.
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