Freedom of Expression

Freedom of expression; probably the most important value each of us holds dear. Without the ability to express ourselves freely, how can we grow as individuals?

Of course, there are many reasons expression is quashed; either political, personal, sexual, artistic—it’s entirely dependent on the situation and the expression’s relativity. Many would suggest that any form of expression is relevant or justified, but that’s simply not the case. We are lucky to live in such a liberal country where the freedom of expression is mostly respected, but can you imagine if there was no regulation on how we spoke our minds or expressed ourselves creatively or even sexually?

Most consider freedom of expression the ability to write poetry, converse with conviction (in terms of liberating a valid point), painting murals that represent the local area or protesting political oppression. But just imagine if extremist groups were left unchecked and people were beheaded in the main streets of capitals and cities because of the colour of their skin? What if you had your tongue removed by someone who didn’t like the way that you argued your point during a harmless religious conversation and what would happen if people were allowed to draw all over your brand new car in marker pens because they simply ‘felt’ like expressing distaste for your Prius blue?

Yes, freedom of expression is relevant and more important than so many other things that drive us daily, but there is a time and a place for its communication. To be able to express the sincerity of your beliefs and passions is just, but as long as that outpouring does not directly impact another individual in a negative light, then please, carry on painting penis’s on bus stops or attempting to force veganism on meat eaters.

Kristy J