You don't know what nationality I am, but let's assume I'm Norwegian.
Let's also assume that there's a derogatory term "Nork" that bigots
use to refer to Norwegians.
You do know, from my writings, that I'm a Christian, but you don't
know what denomination (if any) that I belong to.
And, because we live in a Democratic Republic that enshrines Freedom
of Speech, you are entitled to call me a "Nork" and disparage my
Religion if you wish. Yes, it is true that free speech applies to bigots,
even though you might never know that on a college campus today.
Of course, using that free speech might result in an altercation (or a
punch in the nose), but those are some of the consequences of using
free speech carelessly. Also, it's true that your ignorance and
close-mindedness can be exposed by your words. Others can see
into your heart through your words.
In the old days, some of the bad consequences of free speech were
mitigated by learning to "live and let live", and that "sticks and
stones may break my bones, but names will never harm me".
True, these have become banalities, but they are still pretty good
words to live by.
What you are NOT entitled to do in a Democratic Republic is
interfere with my right to speak, or to practice my Religion, or go
about my daily business because you feel your rights are greater
than my rights, or your cause is greater than my rights.
Peaceful demonstrations and protests are protected forms of free
speech. Riots, disruptions of public streets and airports,
property damage and burning, and public intimidation, are not.
One of the great ironies of life is watching mindless violent protests
in the streets of Berkeley and other cities being described as being
birthed by the "Free Speech Movement at Berkeley".
Such anarchy and violent movements have much more in common with
with the bigoted lynchings by racists in the Old South, and by the Brown
Shirts of the National Socialist Party in Germany than they do with free speech.
How can you watch people shout others down in the name of "free
speech"? How can you listen to the hate and venom sprout from the
mouths of those preaching "peace, love, and tolerance" without noticing
the stunning hypocrisy?
The contradiction is stark. Closed minds and hearts are revealed by words
and deeds.
If they are right...if President Trump is indeed the fascist and racist they
portray, time will reveal him and they will be proven right. Ideas win
fights...posturing and tantrums never will.
Shaming and bullying those who voted for a candidate you didn't
care for will never earn you votes. It will only shame you and your
cause.
The Constitution and the country will survive.
