From the suffragettes to Syrian refugees, organic food to live music, Glasgow hosts a conversation about all things ethical later this month.

Craig Tannock of venues Mono, Stereo, the Flying Duck and the 78 is one of the organisers of the first the Only Way is Ethics festival, including Vegfest Scotland.

If you think Glasgow is the most unlikely sounding event to take place in a city notorious for its poor health record, Craig says that couldn’t be further from the truth.

“I think it’s perfect for Glasgow because a lot of people have an opinion and part of our culture is not being afraid to say what you think,” he reasons.

“The history of Glasgow’s culture is people standing up and not being afraid to say what they think. Not feeling they have a right to because of whatever standing they may be perceived to have in society.

“In Glasgow there’s a collective understanding that everyone is due their opinion. That’s all part of our culture.”

The idea for the festival has been percolating in Craig’s head for a number of years. It was only after meeting David Scott of Glasgow-based ethic business BeYonder that the event really took shape.

First of all they wanted to bring Vegfest to Scotland, then that widened out into the idea of an ethical festival.

He laughs when he says the name The Only Way is Ethics came from a misheard conversation between the pair. It stuck and set the wheels in motion.

More than 50 events are planned, starting on November 29 with a launch night concert at St Luke’s, Calton, featuring a rare appearance of El Hombre Trajeado, including RM Hubbert, Stevie Jones, Ben Jones and Stef Sinclair, as well as Karine Polwart and Ela Orleans.

“We are interested in offering engaging events. Even if it is just something happening in someone’s front room with five people there, if these people go away and say it was worthwhile and they got something from the experience, it has been worthwhile,” says Craig.

“You Play Your Part is going to be great, it’s a screening in the Old Hairdresser’s and is a film produced by Govan-based Plantation Productions, celebrating women’s activism in Govan and Glasgow, from the rent strikes right through to the present day.

“There will be live music related to the film and a talk about the issues raised.”

Banner Tales of Glasgow, also at the Old Hairdresser’s, taps into the city’s rich heritage of of political banners.

The evening of film, live music and talk, recognises and celebrates the important role played by community and workplace organisers in shaping Glasgow. Political songs will be performed live by singer-songwriters active in Glasgow’s political song scene, and there will be a screening of The Govan Banners.

Meanwhile Toonspeak Young People’s Theatre will present Word of Mouth at Stereo, an evening of performance by young writer and performers from disadvantaged communities across Glasgow.

And women’s activism, from the suffragettes to today, are the focus of a workshop at Glasgow Women’s Library.

“Since the idea of the festival was conceived two years ago Glasgow has changed significantly through the weeks of the referendum campaign,” reflects Craig.

“Regardless of what side you were on the change is the city was absolutely tangible. One of the great things that has come out of that is people realising their voice matters.

“Engaging, in the house, on the street, at work - it is all important, this build of conversation and sharing of ideas and information.

“I also think people are becoming more aware of issues and ideas that weren’t mainstream 10 years ago. The big one for me is climate change. That used to be a radical idea and now it is an established subject.”

From music fans and food fans to academics and political types, Craig hopes the festival will attract a wide range of people interested in discussing the issues of the day in a relaxed and engaging environment.

“In the fullness of time, we hope this festival could have a lasting impact, become an annual event and help Glasgow to be recognised as a leading centre of ethical thinking around the world,” says Craig.

“We hope it brings about meaningful and lasting changes. We want this to be a really good experience for anyone who gets involved in any capacity.

“The main focus will be on the environment, social responsibility, social inclusion and animal rights. But we want to open up a city-wide conversation on ethical thinking in general.”

The festival’s main sponsors are Glasgow Caledonian University and Glasgow-based accountants Murray Associates.

Participants include the University of Glasgow, Chemikal Underground Records, Clydeside IWW, Glasgow Women’s Library, Greencity Wholefoods, Mitchells Roberton Solicitors, Project Ability, Scotwest Credit Union, Spirit of Revolt and Toonspeak Young People’s Theatre.

Glasgow Caledonian University will also host a public discussion with the aim of generating positive action to help with the Syrian refugee crisis.

The Only Way is Ethics, from November 29 to December 6, runs at venues across Glasgow. Visit www.ethics.scot