Question

 

Do Americans still have freedom of speech as a basic right? Are we citizens still able to express our beliefs? If I write a column stating a political stance, will my editor receive angry letters denouncing me as well as my writing skills and my views?

This column may be the litmus test. Over the past 22 years I have written mostly light-hearted pieces; chickadees, moose, trees and lakes, my dogs and their exploits. Long time readers know about my life: the great stuffing debate at my family’s Thanksgiving… my year living in the woods and the book that ensued…whiskey jacks at my window…the moose that tracked through my garden. You might even feel you know me personally although we’ve never met. However, most readers probably don’t know what my personal beliefs are.

And that’s okay. I am a rather private person and don’t mind. However, I’d like to know that I still have the right to express my beliefs. But will I be tolerated if you and I have clashing opinions on a topic?

Does John Q. Public understand that free speech means just that? It does not mean “you have the right to your beliefs as long as they agree with mine?” It does not mean “you can say anything unless we disagree.” With the exception of “inciting actions that would harm others,” such as shouting ‘fire’ in a crowded theatre, the right to free speech stands. Does everyone understand?

I don’t know.

I’d like to write about the right to free speech we, as citizens of this country, have been given and my fear that this cornerstone of our democratic republic is slowly and systematically being eroded.

But I have to wonder. Will my discussion and exploration of the right to free speech be tolerated by readers who disagree with me? How will my opinion be received? Will I have to change my words? Do we still practice free speech in this country?