Scrolling through Facebook on Wednesday I came across an article titled, “Pro-Rape Group to Hold Meeting in Curtis Hixon Park on Saturday.” The caption read, “Be aware.” I was horrified. I couldn’t believe what I was reading so I clicked on it to learn more and saw that they are a group of men that go by “Return of Kings.” The group will be meeting in 162 cities around the nation on Saturday night. The leader of the group has written articles such as, “Women shouldn’t be allowed to vote,” and “Rape Culture was manufactured to wage an unjust war against men.” The more I read the more upset I was. I’ve known that people like meninists exist online and post on social media trying to start arguments with feminists and saying awful things but the idea that this group has the numbers to meet in person and in so many cities really seemed wrong.
Then I started thinking about it more. I am a journalism major who is extremely grateful for the First Amendment, my future wouldn’t exist without the freedom of speech. These people, as sickening and repulsive as they are, have freedom of speech just like the rest of us. While I can’t imagine the emotional stress that many women feel being exposed to these ideas, nevertheless it is the group’s right. While I would love for these deplorable men to not be allowed to congregate and express these ideas, that would also mean giving up the rest of the people’s freedom of speech too.
This is something that would be much worse. Yes, we would not have to hear about this group, but on the other hand we wouldn’t get to hear the rest of the people’s opinions either. Essentially, “ I do not agree with what you have to say, but I’ll defend to the death your right to say it.” Saying that I disagree with “Return of Kings” is a serious understatement, but other than that this anonymous quote applies perfectly here. I am so excited that I get to be a journalist to tell the truth, give voice to the voiceless and have the freedom to write about whatever I want without the fear of becoming a political prisoner or another form of punishment that journalists in other countries have to worry about everyday.
As much as I hate what these people stand for, I know that we have the same rights so we can fight back.
For every horrible thing they say, the rest of us can say ten more against them if we want. My advice for this weekend is be safe and aware, but also know that we live somewhere that our speech is fully protected and that comes with unfortunate situations like this. Our speech is totally protected, so speak up.
Photo courtesy of jarofquotes.com