We weren't astonished when we saw a David Lammy speech disrupted at the Fabian Society New Year conference in the City of London at the weekend. Because, unfortunately, despite all the security measures these things can and do happen. But, we were very pleased with how everyone dealt with the situation.

David Lammy Speech Disruption at the Fabian Society
When you give a speech you shouldn't have to put yourself in a hazardous position. That's not the idea. It's true that you might encounter a heckler if you are unlucky. Typically a heckler will back down, but when Secretary Clinton gave a speech at George Washington her silent heckler was forcibly removed from the premises. More recently Jacob Rees-Mogg gave a good example of how to deal with a heckler. Politely.
Speech Protests are Still a Rarity
Protests are a bit different, however. For example, when the Prime Minister, Theresa May, came across a protester on the conference stage she had to wait an age for the man to be removed. But she remained incredibly calm.
However, there are also protesters who have a different agenda entirely. At one end of the speech protest spectrum we saw the Pakistan President's speech in Birmingham disrupted by a shoe-throwing protester. A sole protester. But he threw two shoes. One of which came close to leathering the President.
And, of course, at the other end of the spectrum we have violence meted out against a speaker. In Iran, Speaker Larijani made a swift exit from the podium after a section of the audience became unruly. Thrown shoes was the least of his worries.
And ten years ago a Bulgarian conference speech finished prematurely after a gunman took to the stage. Fortunately the weapon failed in its task and the gunman was apprehended. Appalling.
Unfortunately there are instances where the outcome is far worse. Let's not forget that Malcolm X was killed as he gave a speech at the Audubon Ballroom in New York in 1965
Be Cautious About Speech Disruptions
So, it's no surprise that security experts advise caution when it comes to protesters making a scene during a speech.
When the David Lammy speech was disrupted at the Fabian Society he left the stage very quickly indeed. And I have no doubt that he'd had a discussion about such a scenario beforehand. Because after the assassination of the Conservatives MP for Southend, Sir David Amess, all MPs have received such good advice.
How You Can Manage Protests in Your Speech
First things first. Protests are very rare for any speaker on the podium. But, if you occupy a prominent position it's always a good idea to be prepared.
- 1Seek out and listen to security advice that's available for your event.
- 2Consider any geopolitical or socio-economic ramifications for your speech/ event. Be ready.
- 3If you encounter a protest, remain calm. Others in the audience will look to you for a lead.
- 4Be ready to leave the stage if a protester encroaches on the stage or towards your lectern.
- 5Once the protest is dealt with, have a quiet word with the audience, thank the security team and return to your speech.
When you need some help with your next speech you'll find lots of top public speaking tips, videos and podcasts with more than 100 tips. And when you need to take your speeches that bit further please don't hesitate to get in touch about public speaking skills training or coaching.
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