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 further 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?

TEDxURI 2025, which will be held Sunday, April 6, at 2 p.m. in Edwards Hall on the University of Rhode Island’s Kingston Campus, will confront some of those questions this spring with “Finding the Truth,” a topic crucial to our survival.

To do that, TEDxURI 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 URI 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 application form.

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 TEDxURI judges will be unable to view it. URI is not responsible for any video that is unviewable.

If you are selected, your full TEDxURI presentation will be between 5 and 7 minutes in length. URI 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 TEDxURI website or contact Production Manager Paula McGlasson at paulam@uri.edu or Stage Manager Meghan Turner at meghant513@uri.edu. Or go to the TEDxURI website.

To view previous TEDxURI talks, visit the website.