Lauren Gottlieb
Freedom is a gift often taken for granted by those born with the privilege. Simple
self-expression will always be guaranteed, right? Words flow straight from our thoughts and are
submitted to a page, a website, and social media. Speaking without fear of punishment has
pushed the young and old to stand up for what they believe is ethical. This right encourages
justice and passion.
For instance, without the freedom of speech, we would lack some of the most influential
American leaders. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. used his talents to speak in opposition to
oppression towards African American citizens. King's speech, I Have a Dream, touched the
hearts of many people, saying: “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a
nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their
character. I have a dream today.” Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton worked towards
women’s suffrage and against slavery. Anthony and Stanton delivered speeches and led
demonstrations.
At the time, many of these people were considered strange for being in speaking
positions. Nevertheless, they vocalized their goals. The words they shared allowed the minds of
others to open. Those willing to ignore prejudice and bias grew as individuals. That is not
necessarily because one idea was right and another was wrong; It is because they did not refuse a
chance to understand a different point of view. The inspiring nature of free speech is what helps
people choose to think for themselves.
One of my favorite parts regarding freedom of speech is the possibilities for passion.
Passion is what drives others to share and better our world. It draws people in, focusing their
attention on the words you preach. Unfortunately, this flame is also what can lead to danger. This
statement proves accurate for the story of Malala Yousafzai.
In a place not so far from home, we see young girls, such as Yousafzai, shot for speaking
about their right to an education. Education is something that American citizens have the right to
protest, celebrate, and more. Furthermore, we see limitations placed on those that wish to
vocalize what is happening in their government. Most importantly, we see this information.
Accessibility is not a problem. Details like these are not kept secret in The Land of the Free.
Ordinary citizens in some other countries get perceived as inferior, thus ineligible for a
voice. This subjugation is what sets the United States apart from these places. We have the
opportunity to share what we wish. Our passions do not get smothered by an oppressive
government.
We must acknowledge people that do not have this freedom. Doing so will remind us of
the significance of our unfiltered words. The people of America should recognize that news is
not available to everyone. There are people in the world left unaware of what their country is
doing and oblivious to the fact that they have a voice.
America values the right to an opinion. Sources share news from all political standpoints.
Both sides get the chance to debate and offer rebuttals to controversial discussions. Finding the
ability to agree to disagree cultivates maturity in our citizens. Meanwhile, other countries are left
blind to all that their government does. Why is freedom of speech an essential freedom for
society? It is necessary because when countries are without freedom of speech, their people, and
those worldwide, suffer from ignorance.