Freedom of Speech

The First Amendment guarantees Freedom of Speech. The answer, if this is viewed as a question, should be “yes!” But be aware that there are efforts, movements afoot, to restrict that very right. We are seeing it in schools, in public places and in the media, and the target appears to be Christians more than others. Why? Know that Washington is considering legislation that could curb our precious rights.

"Hate Crimes" Legislation. The Left believes people who engage in homosexual behavior deserve special legal protections and wants to punish those who speak out (a restriction on one's freedom of speech) publicly against the homosexual agenda. This can lead to requirements that certain sections of the Holy Bible be changed to remove sections homosexuals consider offensive. Also ministers can be arrested for even reading such passages from the pulpit, regardless of what they may say separately. It could enable Authorities to meet with your friends and neighbors and ask about your views, and if indeed you are a Christian and read the Bible you could be on the list of those who hate. Since when did Christians go from being "prudes" to “bigots.” And if this can succeed as a standard depiction of Christians even bigotry may be considered a hate crime. Are we seeing the rise of another form of McCarthyism? Heterosexuals may require the same protection if such a bill is ever passed.

"The Employment Non-Discrimination Act." Imagine an America where radicals can use the federal government to force businesses and churches to hire homosexuals, the way that Canada enforces its so-called tolerance laws. The Left thinks that is a good idea. Canada does not have a First Amendment and we do, so we must insure freedoms established in that clause are maintained. The word to be emphasized is “forced”. No one should be forced to do other than what is right. Hire the best person for the job, regardless of race, religion, or sexual orientation, a person befitting the standards of the position to be filled. The First Amendment helps to make America the country that it is. In that regard we must also be concerned about any positions in court cases that refer to International Laws and practices in other countries, countries without similar First Amendment Rights, in an attempt to justify practices, certain conduct, in this country – even it such practices are not allowed in our First Amendment.

"Fairness Doctrine." In 2008 Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) signaled her strong support for revival of the 'Fairness Doctrine', The Broadcaster's Freedom Act, -- which would require radio station owners to provide equal time to radio commentary. Fines for certain activities of as much as $200,000 would be possible, basically a restriction on our Freedom of Speech. In other words, broadcasters like Sean Hannity, Ann Coulter, Hugh Hewitt, Laura Ingram, Focus on the Family, Family Life Today, etc. could be fined repeatedly simply for disclosing what bills are being brought to the Senate floor that will directly affect the public, marriage/family, the religious/Christian sector, etc. This will also lead to fines for repeatedly disagreeing with Washington. The Fairness Doctrine would force conservative stations to broadcast liberal viewpoints. It is a balancing act that masks an attempt at restricting free speech.

Be aware, be informed, fight for the rights of every American.