Name: The Price of Freedom: Firsthand Stories from North Korea and Venezuela
Start: 2026-10-07
End: 2026-10-07

Fargo has an up-and-coming, entrepreneurial spirit to the community that you’ll notice right when you arrive. The metro area spans three cities (Fargo, Moorhead, and West Fargo) and two states separated by the Red River of the North.

Discover canoe parades in the fall, gorgeous wineries along the prairie, and vintage markets on Downtown streets. The rooftop patio views of the sunsets cannot be beaten, and the inspired food and crafted drinks are a perfect match. Immerse yourself in the historical Stave church and Hjemkomst Viking ship, the downtown murals, and step back in time at Bonanzaville, the pioneer village. Experience north. North of Normal.

Visit Fargo-Moorhead

Event Location: Oceti Sakowin Ballroom, NDSU Memorial Union, 5:30-7:00 p.m., hors d'oeuvres will follow from 7:00-8:00 p.m.  
  
Born in North Korea, human rights activist and YAF Speaker Yeonmi Park grew up in a punishing society devoted to the worship of Kim Jong-Il. But at the age of 13, she and her family made a daring escape to China in search of a life free of tyranny. In her viral talks, viewed online nearly 350 million times, Park urges audiences to recognize—and resist—the oppression that exists in North Korea, and around the world.  
  
Growing up in Hyesan, North Korea, it was normal for Park to see dead bodies as she walked to school, and to be so hungry that she ate wild plants. After watching a pirated copy of Titanic, the veil of tyranny began to fall. Having caught a glimpse of a free world, Park realized that her experience of life wasn’t the only one—and that she might one day find a way out.  
  
In 2002, Park’s family suffered a crucial blow when her father was arrested and sent to prison camp for engaging in “illegal trading”—selling materials that no one would be punished for in a free society. In 2007, Park’s sister escaped with a friend before she and her mother followed her to China. But before they could locate her, Park and her mother were sold separately to Chinese human traffickers. In 2009, Park and her mother crossed the Gobi Desert to Mongolia from China in -40-degree weather, finding their freedom in South Korea. She recounts this incredible story in her searing memoir In Order to Live: A North Korean Girl’s Journey to Freedom, and in the insightful, moving talks based on her experiences.  
  
A candid speaker, Park is fast becoming a leading voice of oppressed people around the world. At the Oslo Freedom Forum and the One Young World Summit in Dublin, she became an international phenomenon, delivering passionate and deeply personal speeches about the brutality of the North Korean regime. Her address to One Young World on the horrors of detention camps, political executions, and sex trafficking has been viewed over 320 million times. The BBC named Park one of their “Top 100 Global Women."  
  
Park is also the author of While Time Remains: A North Korean Defectors’ Search for Freedom in America, published on February 14, 2023.  
  
Daniel Di Martino holds a Ph.D. in economics from Columbia University. He is a Graduate Fellow at the Manhattan Institute and serves on the Center for Entrepreneurship & Free Enterprise Board of Advisors at Young America’s Foundation.  
  
Born and raised in Venezuela, Di Martino experienced first-hand the devastating consequences of socialism. After leaving Venezuela for the United States in 2016, he dedicated himself to explaining how socialism destroyed his homeland, advocating for Venezuela’s freedom, and working to prevent this ideology from being implemented in the United States and elsewhere.  
  
Di Martino appears frequently on national television networks such as Fox News and CNN; writes for USA Today, National Review, and other major outlets; and speaks regularly at college campuses and events across the country.  
  
He is also the founder of the Dissident Project, which provides students with access to informed, thoughtful perspectives on how authoritarianism takes hold, what happens when it does, and what America can learn from the failures and human costs of current and former socialist states around the world.  
  
The Challey Institute and Young America's Foundation co-sponsor this event.  
Register for the event - use code "PRICEOFFREEDOM"  
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The Price of Freedom: Firsthand Stories from North Korea and Venezuela

Experience the comfort and convenience of Candlewood Suites Fargo-N. Dakota State Univ. by IHG, an ideal haven for extended stays. Located near the vibrant campus of North Dakota State University, this hotel positions guests in the heart of Fargo, making it an excellent choice for business travelers, university visitors, and families alike.

Each suite is designed with your comfort in mind, offering fully equipped kitchens, spacious work desks, and high-speed internet to ensure a productive and relaxing stay. For fitness enthusiasts, the on-site gym provides state-of-the-art equipment to maintain your workout routine. The Candlewood Cupboard® offers a selection of snacks and meals available 24/7, catering to guests’ needs at any hour.

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Ample parking and an on-site laundry facility add to the convenience of your stay, making Candlewood Suites Fargo-N. Dakota State Univ. an outstanding choice for both short and extended visits. Whether you're in town for business or leisure, the welcoming atmosphere and thoughtful amenities ensure a memorable visit to Fargo. 

Candlewood Suites Fargo-N. Dakota State Univ. by IHG

Welcome to Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Fargo 19th Ave/Airport Dome, where comfort and convenience meet. Nestled in the heart of Fargo, our hotel is perfect for business travelers, families, and tourists alike. Just steps away from Hector International Airport, guests will appreciate the ease of access to flights and the vibrant FargoDome, making it ideal for attending events or exploring local attractions.

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Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Fargo 19th Ave/Airport Dome

Discover comfort and convenience at Homewood Suites by Hilton Fargo, strategically located at 2021 16th St N, just moments from Hector International Airport. Designed to cater to both business travelers and families, this all-suite hotel offers an array of modern amenities tailored to ensure a memorable stay. Guests can unwind in spacious suites featuring fully-equipped kitchens and separate living areas, providing a homelike atmosphere that suits extended stays.

Start each day with a complimentary hot breakfast, perfect for fueling your Fargo adventures. Business travelers will appreciate the on-site business center and meeting facilities, catering to corporate needs. For leisure, the hotel boasts an indoor pool and fitness center, ideal for relaxation and staying active during your visit.

Homewood Suites by Hilton Fargo is situated near top attractions, including the Fargodome and North Dakota State University, making it an excellent choice for event attendees and prospective students. The hotel's proximity to local dining and shopping areas enhances its appeal, offering guests easy access to Fargo's vibrant lifestyle.

Whether you're visiting for business, family gatherings, or exploring the scenic Red River Valley, Homewood Suites by Hilton Fargo provides a welcoming retreat with its blend of warm hospitality, thoughtful amenities, and prime location. 

Homewood Suites by Hilton Fargo

Discover the charm and convenience of Jasper Hotel, perfectly situated in the heart of Fargo, North Dakota. Located at 215 Broadway N, Jasper Hotel offers an inviting blend of modern comfort and classic style, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers. Guests can enjoy spacious and elegantly appointed rooms that provide a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring the city.

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Jasper Hotel caters to a diverse range of guests by offering exceptional amenities designed to enhance your stay. Business travelers will appreciate the well-equipped meeting facilities and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring a seamless work experience. For those looking to unwind, the hotel features a state-of-the-art fitness center, perfect for keeping up with your workout routine.

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Whether your trip is professional or a family getaway, Jasper Hotel’s excellent location and thoughtful amenities make it a top choice for visitors to Fargo. 

Jasper Hotel

Welcome to Brewhalla Hotel, a charming and sophisticated retreat situated in the heart of Fargo, North Dakota. Conveniently located at 1702 1st Ave N, our hotel is perfectly positioned for both business and leisure travelers. Enjoy seamless access to Fargo's vibrant downtown area, where an array of shops, dining options, and cultural attractions await, just a short stroll away.

Brewhalla Hotel offers a variety of elegantly appointed rooms and suites designed to provide the utmost comfort and relaxation. Each room features modern amenities to ensure a pleasant stay, including high-speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and plush bedding. Our hotel caters to all guests, whether you're visiting with family, traveling for business, or seeking a romantic getaway.

For those who value wellness and fitness, our on-site fitness center is equipped with state-of-the-art exercise machines, allowing you to maintain your workout routine while on the road. Start your day right with a delicious breakfast, offering both continental and American options, served in our cozy dining area.

Business travelers will appreciate our convenient meeting facilities, available for conferences, corporate events, or private gatherings. Stay connected and productive with complimentary access to our business center.

Brewhalla Hotel invites you to discover the perfect blend of comfort and convenience in Fargo. Whether you're here to work, explore, or relax, let us provide the exceptional service and hospitality that will make your stay truly memorable. 

Brewhalla Hotel

Nestled in the heart of downtown Fargo, the Radisson Blu Fargo offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience for all types of travelers. Business visitors will appreciate its proximity to the Fargo Convention Center and convenient access to key corporate offices. Tourists and families can explore nearby attractions like the Plains Art Museum and the Historic Fargo Theatre, all within walking distance.

This upscale hotel features a range of top-notch amenities designed to enhance your stay. Relax in contemporary rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Fitness enthusiasts will find a well-equipped gym, perfect for maintaining their workout routine.

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Whether you are visiting for business or leisure, the Radisson Blu Fargo promises an enriching experience with attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere. Its strategic location and excellent facilities make it an unrivaled choice for any stay in Fargo. 

Radisson Blu Fargo

Discover the charm and sophistication of Hotel Donaldson, nestled in the heart of downtown Fargo, North Dakota. This boutique hotel, located at 101 Broadway N, offers a perfect blend of historic elegance and modern comfort, ideal for both leisure and business travelers seeking a memorable stay.

Guests can indulge in beautifully appointed rooms adorned with local artwork and equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable retreat after a day of exploration or meetings. Hotel Donaldson stands out with its warm and personalized service, creating a welcoming atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. 

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The hotel's strategic location makes it an excellent choice for visitors wanting to explore the vibrant local culture, with theaters, galleries, and unique shops all within walking distance. Business travelers will appreciate the hotel’s proximity to major corporate offices and its well-equipped meeting spaces.

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Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, Hotel Donaldson offers exceptional service and an unparalleled experience, making it the ideal choice for your stay in Fargo. 

Hotel Donaldson

Welcome to WoodSpring Suites Fargo North Near NDSU, a comfortable and convenient choice for travelers visiting Fargo, North Dakota. Located at 1090 35th St N, our hotel is ideally situated near North Dakota State University, making it a perfect option for families visiting students, prospective students, and university-related visitors. 

Our extended-stay hotel offers spacious, clean, and affordable accommodations designed to cater to both short and long-term guests. Each suite comes equipped with a fully functional kitchen, complete with a refrigerator, microwave, and stovetop, allowing guests to prepare meals at their convenience. Additionally, we provide free high-speed Wi-Fi to ensure you stay connected during your visit.

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Whether you are visiting for business, educational purposes, or leisure, WoodSpring Suites Fargo North Near NDSU offers a welcoming environment and all the essential amenities needed for a comfortable and productive stay. 

WoodSpring Suites Fargo North Near NDSU

Welcome to the Fargo Airport Hotel, your ideal retreat conveniently located near Hector International Airport. Designed with both business and leisure travelers in mind, our hotel offers a seamless blend of comfort and convenience. Guests can enjoy modern, well-appointed rooms equipped with plush bedding for a restful night’s sleep and equipped with free Wi-Fi to stay connected throughout their stay. 

Our hotel boasts a heated indoor pool and a state-of-the-art fitness center, ensuring guests can maintain their workout routines. Start your day right with our complimentary continental breakfast, featuring a selection of delicious options to suit all tastes. For those here on business, our flexible meeting spaces and comprehensive business center are perfect for hosting productive gatherings. 

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Fargo Airport Hotel

Experience comfort and convenience at the Ramada by Wyndham Fargo, perfectly situated at 3333 13th Ave S in the vibrant city of Fargo, North Dakota. Ideal for both business travelers and families, this hotel offers easy access to key attractions, including the bustling downtown area and Fargo's lively entertainment scene.

Guests can unwind in spacious and well-appointed rooms that provide a modern retreat after a day of exploring. The hotel features an indoor pool and a fitness center for those looking to stay active, ensuring a rejuvenating experience during your stay. Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property allows you to stay connected with ease, whether for work or leisure.

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Whether you're visiting Fargo for business, leisure, or a little of both, Ramada by Wyndham Fargo provides the essentials to make your stay enjoyable while being close to the city’s key attractions. 

The Price of Freedom: Firsthand Stories from North Korea and Venezuela

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