I have always been a strong advocate for free speech. As a child, before I even understood what free speech was, I have been often in trouble for saying it, how I saw it. My parents taught their children the importance of expression. As a result, the three of us have always been considered outspoken. What I needed to learn as a child, however, was how to present what I believed in a responsible way. Hopefully I have learned I do that, more often than not.
As the debate over free speech rages following the terrorist attacks in Paris the howls are gaining in intensity. Many of those screaming the loudest (many right wing, Christian conservatives) had never heard of Charlie apart from the odd rumble over a Muslim cartoon. They are probably not even aware that Charlie was an ultra-left publication that despised everything conservatives stood for. In making that comment I am in no way condoning the cold blooded murder of Charlie employee's & other innocent people by Muslim extremists.
But it does in my mind create a question over free speech, standards and our collective desired harmonious society. The original intent of free speech was to give a voice to the suppressed minority and as I read recently; to keep our governments honest. But free speech is now rapidly declining into the tool of choice by far too many to incite and validate hatred, attack & vilify others based on opposing views on religion, politics, human rights, environment etc. Even other conservatives who express middle of the road views are attacked and vilified by other far right wing conservatives. I find it laughable that 'the pen is mightier than the sword' cartoons are swamping the internet and various publications and yet, it hasn't dawned on those promoting this that is was the (it could be argued) inappropriate use of the pen that has led to the deaths so many people.
I had the temerity to suggest yesterday that "Charlie" were not very nice people. Via their cartoons they attacked Christians, Jews, politicians and Muslims in the most appealing fashion. I was at pains to point out that in making that statement I in no way condoned the murder of Charlie employees over a religious cartoon. I was immediately attacked and accused of being a hater and an ISIS sympathizer. Yes, by so called conservatives.
So back to free speech. Our right to free speech has to come with a level of responsibility. I have said this on numerous occasions. It can't be used as a tool to bully and vilify others. This comment sums it up beautifully. "In a democracy the right to free speech is given by the people through the parliament. However, it is impossible to legislate decency."
So let's continue to fight for the rights to free speech and that includes the repeal of 18c. But as responsible people, let's also fight for common decency, balance, respect, truth, tolerance and civility.
