Free speech is under the most withering, sustained fire since the Inquisition (yes, even here in the West) but few there are who are bothering to fight back. For instance, judges have failed to properly defend free speech, journalists (unless it is their own ox that has been gored) have largely ignored the problem, and the Free Speech Protection Act of 2008 (representing excellent and much-needed legislation) is languishing in Washington for lack of co-sponsors and invigorated support.As described by Clifford D. May in a fine piece published in the Twin Cities' Star-Tribune, the Free Speech Protection Act "would give Americans who find themselves in the situation described above a "federal cause of action" to sue right back -- and to claim legal fees, costs and significant damage awards as well if a U.S. court concludes that the foreign suit was 'a scheme to suppress First Amendment rights.'
What's more, the bill would provide "expedited discovery": The plaintiff would be compelled to disclose information and documents relevant to the charges -- something few investors in terrorist enterprises are eager to do."
It is well worth our efforts to try and move politicians off the dime on this matter. Contact info can be found here and further "talking points" about the desperate need for the Free Speech Protection Act can be found in the rest of May's article, including his succinct review of the three most dastardly assaults on free speech in our time: threats of violence and mayhem, political correctness, and the little understood but far-reaching threat of "libel tourism."
Again, it's an important read.
