The existence of freedom of speech is the cornerstone of the phrase “liberty and justice for all,” from the United States pledge of allegiance.
It allows people, regardless of their status, appearance, or any other distinguishable features to contribute to a society that welcomes the free flow of ideas. That right is something that is a part of what draws many people as well as distances them from the multifaceted aspects of the American culture. I believe all campuses should make the ability to express perspectives a vital part of the culture of college. Many individuals go into college with certain mindsets and particular dogmas that they don’t necessarily understand fully. If they are immersed in an area where the interaction and active participation of different ideas is sought after, then they will have more opportunities to grow and explore themselves, strengthens their beliefs, and gain new perspectives. People are always going to have something to say and to live in a place where that is welcomed and to go to a school that provides a liberal education allows it to prevail furthermore.
As a result of the profound impact that words can have — both positively and negatively, there is a continuous controversy when extremists on opposite ends of an issue feel compelled to exercise their rights. Opposition is built around differing and conflicting concepts, but it is just that which allows people to interpret and view their lives in different ways. According to Kennesaw State’s Daniel Pakkala on the Young Americans for Liberty website, which is also a registered organization on this campus, about 500 to 600 people contributed to the freedom of speech wall event held September 19. Individuals wrote things on this wall that ranged from bible verses to personal rap lyrics. The wall alone is yet another addition to the opportunities available for students and faculty to build foundations for knowledge and application of those tools that have been acquired. For many, that wall could have been the starting point for them to have their voices heard, their passions realized, and their hopes acknowledges while for some it can be seen as just another representation of the freedoms present in this country and they wouldn’t have not been the least bit surprised by the turn out or the excitement build around this even.
There is a certain restriction that the idea of this freedom can bring forth. Everyone deserves the right to inform their peers and colleagues of these opinions, values and beliefs, but there is a time and a place to say and do certain things. Discretion and well as the level of sensitivity and possible offense of the recipients and the holders of this speech should be considered before anything is said. According to an article by Tim Cushing on techdirt.com, “free speech isn’t supposed to be limited to small areas.” This can include small schools of thought or physically small areas. Putting yourself in the place of others and their plausible thoughts on the situation can allow for less confusion and argument, as confrontations are likely to occur when free speech turns into free fight.
Freedom of speech is typically practiced without the intention being solely rooted in patriotism, but simply to demonstrate beliefs. Missionaries walk around cities to spread the gospel, opposes of the results of certain cases march in streets, and some protesters of the law even put their positions in society to a halt in order to fight for another cause. The level of acceptance that the United States has toward the verbal aspect of creativity is prevalent in many areas of society, so why should a college campus be exempt from this? Liberal, conservative, independent, undecided and whatever may lie between are the types of individuals that are represented in colleges all over the country. They are filled with individuals who may have a lot to say, nothing to say, and some that are just waiting for the right time and environment to use their voice without fear or condemnation or retribution. There can be consequences if un called for and inappropriate situations arise, but a level of maturity and open-mindedness is expected in a community where free speech is encouraged.
Toni-Ann Hall
Freshman Communication Major