While some feel celebrities should not use their fame to express opinions on social and political issues, those who sign this petition feel otherwise. We find it refreshing when actors talk about something other than their latest series or movie. We realize that some stars know nothing about the political causes they weigh in on while others are actually eloquent speakers who express informed and intelligent opinions. We would like to continue having the freedom to hear all celebrity opinions, even the stupid ones. If celebrities cannot express their opinions openly, we lose this important right (and Leno and Letterman would lose valuable monolog material). The current situation with Iraq has caused many celebrities to take public stands for and against a war. One group of \"ordinary citizens\" has decided that those speaking out against the war are \"anti-Bush\" and \"un-American\" and as such should be silenced. They have gone so far as to launch a petition against these celebrities. Because one silly action sometimes deserves another, this opposing petition is being launched and will be sent to the same outlets that receive the original document. It exists because, as ridiculous as this whole debate about celebrity opinions is, the right of individual Americans to freely express their opinion, disagree with their elected officials and stand against the status quo is a right we hold very dear. Celebrity or average Joe, everyone has a say and no one should be branded \"unpatriotic\" or \"anti-American\" because they do not agree with a war or some other decision made by this or any future President. This petition supports the right of ALL Americans to gather knowledge from a variety of sources, think for themselves and formulate intelligent individual opinions. It stands as opposition against those who would shout down, silence or berate others who simply do not agree with them. While some feel expressing an opinion that runs counter to the majority is dangerous, we feel that a lack of opinion and public discourse represents the real threat to the American way. Agree with the war or disagree with it. That is your option as an American, regardless of your celebrity status (or lack thereof). We\'d rather \"agree to disagree\" than use name-calling and jingoism as tactics in public debate.
The traction gained over the last day confirms that a significant group prioritizes the protection of free speech for all public figures. I am currently preparing the formal correspondence to be delivered to the media outlets receiving the opposing petition. These documents will ensure that the counterpoint regarding protected expression is formally entered into the public record.
6 Comments
L
Linda Gomez
23 years ago
Featured
Well said. Its pathetic how people get so worked up over an actor sharing their thoughts.
S
Sarah Morales
23 years ago
Featured
Exactly. If you dont like what they say just change the channel. Nobody is forcing you to listen to them.
B
Brian Adeyemi
23 years ago
Featured
Free country right? i might not agree with half of what they say but they have the right to say it.
M
Mike Newman
23 years ago
Featured
Freedom of speech applies to everyone. Just because they are famous doesnt mean they lose their rights as an american.
J
Jennifer Riley
23 years ago
Featured
They have just as much right to speak up as any other person. Censorship is never the answer.
D
Dave Espinoza
23 years ago
Featured
SO TIRED of people trying to silence others just because they disagree. keep your opinions to yourself if you cant handle the truth!!
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While some feel celebrities should not use their fame to express opinions on social and political issues, those who sign this petition feel otherwise. We find it refreshing when actors talk about something other than their latest series or movie. We realize that some stars know nothing about the political causes they weigh in on while others are actually eloquent speakers who express informed and intelligent opinions. We would like to continue having the freedom to hear all celebrity opinions, even the stupid ones. If celebrities cannot express their opinions openly, we lose this important right (and Leno and Letterman would lose valuable monolog material). The current situation with Iraq has caused many celebrities to take public stands for and against a war. One group of \"ordinary citizens\" has decided that those speaking out against the war are \"anti-Bush\" and \"un-American\" and as such should be silenced. They have gone so far as to launch a petition against these celebrities. Because one silly action sometimes deserves another, this opposing petition is being launched and will be sent to the same outlets that receive the original document. It exists because, as ridiculous as this whole debate about celebrity opinions is, the right of individual Americans to freely express their opinion, disagree with their elected officials and stand against the status quo is a right we hold very dear. Celebrity or average Joe, everyone has a say and no one should be branded \"unpatriotic\" or \"anti-American\" because they do not agree with a war or some other decision made by this or any future President. This petition supports the right of ALL Americans to gather knowledge from a variety of sources, think for themselves and formulate intelligent individual opinions. It stands as opposition against those who would shout down, silence or berate others who simply do not agree with them. While some feel expressing an opinion that runs counter to the majority is dangerous, we feel that a lack of opinion and public discourse represents the real threat to the American way. Agree with the war or disagree with it. That is your option as an American, regardless of your celebrity status (or lack thereof). We\'d rather \"agree to disagree\" than use name-calling and jingoism as tactics in public debate.
The traction gained over the last day confirms that a significant group prioritizes the protection of free speech for all public figures. I am currently preparing the formal correspondence to be delivered to the media outlets receiving the opposing petition. These documents will ensure that the counterpoint regarding protected expression is formally entered into the public record.
6 Comments
L
Linda Gomez
23 years ago
Featured
Well said. Its pathetic how people get so worked up over an actor sharing their thoughts.
S
Sarah Morales
23 years ago
Featured
Exactly. If you dont like what they say just change the channel. Nobody is forcing you to listen to them.
B
Brian Adeyemi
23 years ago
Featured
Free country right? i might not agree with half of what they say but they have the right to say it.
M
Mike Newman
23 years ago
Featured
Freedom of speech applies to everyone. Just because they are famous doesnt mean they lose their rights as an american.
J
Jennifer Riley
23 years ago
Featured
They have just as much right to speak up as any other person. Censorship is never the answer.
D
Dave Espinoza
23 years ago
Featured
SO TIRED of people trying to silence others just because they disagree. keep your opinions to yourself if you cant handle the truth!!
Help this petition grow
Share it with friends to help reach
50 signatures.
Your share link
Couldn't copy automatically. Long-press to copy:
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Sign Petition
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Signing with Google or Facebook verifies your signature instantly — no email needed.
By signing, you accept our Terms and Privacy Policy and agree to occasional emails about petitions. Unsubscribe anytime.
Well said. Its pathetic how people get so worked up over an actor sharing their thoughts.