7 Comments
User's avatar
Michael Mohr's avatar

Tough for most right now. I do my best. I think we need rational thinking right now more than ever. Both sides have major issues.

Sam Rechek's avatar

This is an incredible speech. Thanks to all at FIRE for posting. This gives me a great deal to think about.

Rob R Baron's avatar

You wrote: “How this ongoing experiment in freedom will turn out depends not just on the law but on our collective thoughts and actions as citizens.” The key component is citizens, the members of a social compact with shared interests, who endure the costs of free speech and sometimes suffer as victims, in exchange for the benefits that citizens enjoy such as peace, prosperity and well-being.

Citizens, Not visitors.

Allen Baldwin's avatar

Exactly what I was thinking

Allen Baldwin's avatar

While I agree I also feel the need for limits. Like yelling fire in a crowded theater. You mention a student with a visa condemning America and praising a terrorist organization. It seems clear were should not be admitting anyone who stages out an anti American belief. It seems hard to reconcile.

Harriet Elisabeth Baker's avatar

What a great read. I'm saddened by the differentiation of free speech and cruelty. There once was a sense of a code of gentility for all who were in the political realm. I will defend your right to disagree with me, and you don't have to be cruel. The comments this week about Pearl Harbor and Meuller might fall under free speech; however, they are so far from Presidental, it's appalling

Rob R Baron's avatar

Everyone in the room thought the Pearl Harbor comment was humorous.