For many years, the concept of Free Speech has faced challenges, but in recent times, we have witnessed a surge in blatant and illegal attacks on this fundamental right. Freedom of Speech is not just a privilege but a constitutional guarantee that has long defined the essence of being American. However, over the past three years, the denial of free speech has reached alarming heights. Numerous examples exist where individuals have been fired from their jobs simply for expressing their opinions on social media platforms. One such instance involves John Doe, who was terminated from his position after sharing his perspective on a contentious political issue. This raises the critical question: why are employers intruding into the private lives of their employees? When did it become their prerogative to police personal affairs that occur outside the workplace? Would it not seem absurd if employers dictated one’s love life, travel choices, dietary preferences, workout routines, or even religious beliefs? Unfortunately, we now live in an era where the assault on free speech is not only widespread but often deemed justified.
In his book, “Crushed: Big Tech’s War on Free Speech,” Congressman Ken Buck powerfully articulates the dangers of preventing speech based on personal preference. He highlights the ominous control that Big Tech wields over vast communication platforms, enabling the stifling of freedom and the suppression of diverse ideas. This monopolistic influence poses a grave threat, as it can trample upon the rights of the majority for the benefit of a select few. As Congressman Buck eloquently states, this assault on freedom must not go unchallenged, lest it causes immense suffering for the most vulnerable members of society.
I recall a time not too long ago when debates on a multitude of topics were celebrated. Both sides of an argument were passionately discussed and dissected, whether at prestigious institutions like Yale, Harvard, and Stanford, or even in preparatory schools like Kingswood Oxford, Loomis Chaffe, and Choate. The hallmark of a civilized society rested on the ability to engage in reasoned discourse, weighing the pros and cons of different perspectives. However, during the pandemic, merely posing questions regarding appropriate protocols or alternative treatment options led to immediate cancellation or de-platforming. Such actions not only violated our protected right to free speech but also stripped individuals of their humanity, reducing them to mere automatons. Sadly, the government remained passive, as this erosion of dignity unfolded before our eyes.
The consequences of inaction on this issue are grave and far-reaching. It is imperative that our leaders address these challenges without delay. We cannot afford to wait any longer. The time to act is now. Our society must reclaim the spirit of open dialogue, respectful disagreement, and the free exchange of ideas. Let us heed the words of Congressman Buck and acknowledge that the vitality of our democracy hinges on protecting and preserving the sacred right of Free Speech for all. Only then can we truly ensure a society that values both unity and diversity.
Unchecked Infringement on Free Speech: The Dire Consequences
We must recognize that everything that we have seen and experienced with censorship and de-platforming has be a direct threat to democracy. If we allow the gross infringement on free speech to go unchecked, we open the door to a range of alarming outcomes that could spiral out of control. Three key areas that would be significantly impacted are discrimination against targeted groups, the rise of authoritarianism, and the stifling of creativity and artistic expression.
- Discrimination Against Targeted Groups: Free speech serves as a vital tool for marginalized communities to speak out against injustice, inequality, and prejudice. When the right to freely express opinions is curtailed, it undermines their ability to advocate for their rights and address systemic discrimination. Without a platform to voice their experiences and concerns, already targeted groups may face further marginalization, erasure, and limited opportunities for social progress.
- Rise of Authoritarianism: Free speech acts as a check on power, enabling citizens to voice dissent and hold those in authority accountable. By infringing on this fundamental right, we risk creating an environment conducive to authoritarianism. When individuals are silenced or punished for expressing their opinions, it paves the way for unchecked state power, suppression of civil liberties, and a decline in democratic values. The erosion of free speech can lead to a society where dissent is stifled, opposition is crushed, and citizens are stripped of their fundamental rights.
- Cessation of Creativity and Artistic Expression: Free speech is intricately tied to creativity and artistic expression. Artists, writers, musicians, and performers rely on the freedom to express their ideas and challenge societal norms. When this freedom is compromised, creativity suffers. Artists may self-censor or avoid controversial topics altogether, fearing retaliation, censorship, or persecution. The result is a cultural landscape devoid of diverse voices, innovative ideas, and thought-provoking works that push boundaries and spark meaningful conversations. The cessation of creativity due to restricted free speech limits society’s ability to explore new perspectives, challenge the status quo, and foster cultural growth.
Unchecked infringement on free speech in these areas not only undermines the principles of equality, democracy, and artistic expression but also poses a significant threat to the fabric of our society. It is crucial to recognize the potential consequences and take urgent action to safeguard this essential right. By protecting free speech, we can foster inclusivity, accountability, and a flourishing environment that encourages diverse voices, empowers marginalized communities, and celebrates the transformative power of creativity.
Preserving Free Speech: Action Steps for Empowered Individuals
In the face of an ongoing assault on free speech, it may feel daunting to imagine moving closer to a society that truly values this essential right. However, there are meaningful steps that individuals and groups can take to protect and promote free speech. Here is a list of actionable measures:
- Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated on current events, policies, and laws that impact free speech. Seek out reliable news sources, engage in critical thinking, and actively seek diverse perspectives to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand.
- Advocate for Free Speech: Raise your voice! Engage in conversations online and offline about the importance of free speech. Share personal experiences, educate others about its significance, and foster open dialogue that respects different viewpoints.
- Support Free Speech Organizations: Contribute to organizations that tirelessly champion the cause of free speech. Donate, volunteer, or help raise awareness about their initiatives. Examples of organizations to support include the Institute for Free Speech, the First Amendment Coalition, and the National Coalition Against Censorship.
- Contact Elected Representatives: Reach out to your elected officials and express your concerns about threats to free speech. Write letters, send emails, make phone calls, or attend town hall meetings to ensure that your voice is heard by those in power.
- Support Independent Journalism: Subscribe to and financially support independent journalism platforms that prioritize objective reporting and investigative journalism. By doing so, you contribute to maintaining a diverse media landscape that upholds journalistic integrity.
Preserving free speech necessitates active participation from each and every one of us. By taking these meaningful action steps, we can collectively build a society that upholds this fundamental right, fosters democratic flourishing, and nurtures an environment where diverse ideas can thrive. Let us stand united in defense of free speech, working towards a future where the freedom to express oneself is safeguarded for generations to come.
Dr. Aaron Lewis, December 14, 2023
Reference:
Buck, K. (2020). Crushed: Big Tech’s War on Free Speech. Regnery Publishing.