Renowned freshwater ecologist Mike Joy found himself momentarily silenced, a rare occurrence for the 2023 Callaghan Medal winner for science communication. Joy, a senior research fellow at Victoria University and recipient of numerous awards, had been invited by Wellington City Libraries to discuss his upcoming memoir, “The Fight for Freshwater.”

However, a subsequent conversation with a library representative raised concerns that Joy might veer into political territory. The representative ultimately rescinded the invitation, citing a breach of their policy on public events. The decision left Joy astounded and, for once, speechless.

Joy’s advocacy for New Zealand’s waterways has often drawn criticism from politicians and the agricultural industry. He gained international attention in 2011 when then-Prime Minister John Key dismissed his concerns on the BBC’s HARDtalk.

Joy’s memoir begins with that very exchange, detailing the subsequent rise in his public profile. When he mentioned this to the library representative, along with his sometimes contentious relationship with politicians and farmers, it was flagged as potentially making his talk too controversial.

The representative cited a passage from the library’s policy, prohibiting events primarily aimed at lobbying, advocating community action, or soliciting donations. Joy was bewildered, unable to see how his talk would violate these criteria. He wasn’t rallying support or fundraising, simply intending to share stories from his life and work, including his time as an intelligence agent.

“The book isn’t primarily anti-government,” Joy clarified. “It’s primarily about my life.”

Joy has given numerous talks nationwide, many in libraries, without issue. “I was left wondering, if I can’t talk, then what is acceptable?” he remarked.

The Post inquired with Wellington City Council, seeking clarification on how Joy’s talk might contravene policy and whether the library’s cautious approach was stifling important discussions.

Initially, the council’s manager of libraries and community spaces, Laurinda Thomas, stated that Joy’s intended focus didn’t align with their expectations. However, within 24 hours and after further inquiries from The Post, the council reversed its decision.

“Dr. Joy was invited to speak about his memoir, his life, freshwater, and his scientific work,” Thomas clarified in a follow-up statement. “We apologize if our staff member misunderstood the nature of Dr. Joy’s intentions… Our offer to Dr. Joy to speak on his memoir is still open.”

Joy expressed his willingness to accept the renewed invitation, emphasizing the importance of discussing the state of New Zealand’s waterways. His publisher, Tom Rennie of Bridget Williams Books, welcomed the library’s decision, highlighting Joy’s experience as a speaker who presents evidence-based arguments.

Joy’s memoir is scheduled for release in July, and the library has confirmed it will purchase copies for its collection.