Every person since the beginning of time has had to walk the line between being heard and being disrespectful. Nowadays, that boundary has been blurred, especially when it comes to protests and even just everyday communication. The idea of “being yourself” and “living your truth” has made verbal bashing a common form of expressing your ideas and emotions. The first amendment of the constitution gives everyone the right to speak freely and openly express what they think. However, there are some things that you just can’t say. Some of these things are: shouting “fire” in a crowded theater, using vulgar language towards an officer, threatening someone, and verbally assaulting a teacher or authoritative figure. Just like with anything, there is a balance and a line between practice and abuse. You are more than welcome to practice freedom of speech by respectfully expressing your opinion, but harming someone with your words because they don’t agree is abusing your right.
In the article, “When The Freedom Of Speech Becomes An Excuse For Abuse,” Kris Deichler said, “The freedom of speech does not mean freedom from consequences. What we say, why we say it and how is our individual and collective responsibility.”
Words are powerful, and they can help and harm easily, sometimes simultaneously. What we say has the same consequences as what we do. Using speech for illicit and damaging purposes will demand reparations or bring punishment. Consequences can vary from apologies to jail-time, just like physical actions. Sure, having an attitude towards someone isn’t the same as sharing classified information to a foreign country, but it all boils down to the intention behind your words and whether it is positive. It is just as simple as this: you have dominion over your voice and are responsible for what you say–whether you have the right to or not.
The United Nations organization addresses this topic in the article, “Hate Speech Versus Freedom of Speech.” The article said, “Freedom of opinion and expression are, indeed, cornerstones of human rights and pillars of free and democratic societies.”
In other words, the right to freedom of speech is a crucial element to our democratic society. Without it, we cannot hope for the kindling and spreading of new ideas and perspectives. Furthermore, self expression and self advocacy are inordinately valued in today’s society and culture. Productive communication is necessary for any relationship, job, or really anything that causes substantial growth in your life. That’s not even saying that you have to be perf-ectly nice all of the time, either. Learning how to express negative feelings such as frustration, being overwhelmed, or simply dissatisfied is a very mature and impactful skill to have. You don’t have to be pleased to be respectful, and respect is heard far more than yelling or using vulgar language. People respond to being appreciated and validated, so remember that the next time you are trying to get someone to listen or understand.
In conclusion, freedom of speech doesn’t mean you get to say whatever you want without consequences. Responsibility and respect are still important, whether you think you are protected by an amendment or not. Productive and effective communication is best achieved by both sides being open, attuned, and respectful. However, you don’t need them to be respectful or open to maintain the high road. Lead by example, because the world needs more kindness and respect–not ignorance and hate.
Written by: Brooklin Garrison