Firstly, let me open by
stating that I truly believe in the right for 'Freedom of Speech'
just as much as I stand against any form of censorship. For me, these
two are part of the fundamental building blocks, in any open,
democratic and civilized society. It's just that – if we're
being genuinely honest with ourselves, doesn't really exist – what we perceive as a
rallying call against oppression or the right to openly speak out for social reform,
is little more of an ideal, a Utopian concept, an illusion of free
expression,
For, truth be known, we
only really apply this notion when referring to the larger human
issues
on the world stage.
Religion, politics, terrorism, extremists, racism, global economy or
even immigration, these are all perfectly exceptable recipients for
our verbal protestations. However, when we come to exposing our more
personal beliefs or feelings in a public forum, then things become –
shall we say, abit more debatable.
This is in part, due to
the scourge of the nineties – Political Correctness. This seemingly
innocuous
movement, weaved its way
through council initiatives, leaked down into various quangos',
cultivated itself in public relations offices across the country,
then finally, the alternative comedy circuit, took up the cause.
Result: people are now held socially and morally accountable, for
expressing any of their – less mainstream – intimate
feelings or ideologies. If you are reported as saying you are – or
not – in favour of a particular facet of modern, progressive life –
then be prepared to be possibly judged and vilified by your “peers”
or in some cases, even face criminal prosecution. Is this the Freedom of Speech, we are so protective about ?
Humour has been a serious
victim of this injustice, of late, it is always going to offend –
unless you're Michael McIntyre - some faction or other, it
always has and it always will .This medium - and anyone who has a
different point of view contrary to the masses - has to be protected,
not just from those who reply with violent force, but from anyone who
seeks to silence and reject anything that doesn't meet with own
opinions.
Let us stand together, for
true Freedom of Speech and against all religious intolerance.
We might not agree with what
others believe in, but we should accept their right to believe in it.
The pen is mightier than the
sword ..but only if you're allowed to write in the first place..
