Letter: Free speech is reality | The Daily Lobo – UNM Daily Lobo

Editor,

A Lobo reader quoted a professor, "We need to use standards of universality and logic, otherwise, freedom of speech masks reality."

I disagree! Free speech is reality. Everyone has the right to express opinions without interference or censorship. To seek, receive, impart information and ideas through any media they choose. With that being said, freedom of speech is not without its limitations. With this freedom comes consequences which relate to: libel, slander, obscenity, sedition, incitement etc.

Attacking someone or destroying property because of what someone said, is not free speech, that's vandalism and battery. I'm a vet, regardless of what someone says, I fought for the right of all Americans to speak freely. We the people have a responsibility to the one speaking, listen and agree/disagree or dont listen.

Deciding to alter or replace a persons words is censorship. Censorship isnt reality, it couldnt be further from reality. We learn so much about a personthrough their use of words. Silencing any person because we dont agree with their words is a step towards censoring other freedoms.

The best censorship that we as humans possess is our conscience. Its not perfect, but thats what makes us human, thats what makes this country so great! So choose your words wisely, because when that bell is rung the responsibility will rest clearly on your shoulders, you can't take it back.

John Travis Daily Lobo reader

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