Free Speech Week (FSW) is a national event that recognizes free speech and press in the United States. According to its organizers, “the goal of Free Speech Week is to raise public awareness of the importance of free speech in our democracy – and to celebrate that freedom.”
One of my main goals as a journalism teacher is to develop in my students a desire to express themselves, and there is no better time than the annual Free Speech Week. When students truly understand that the freedom of speech guaranteed to Americans in the First Amendment does not simply mean they can say whatever they want wherever they want, they learn to use that freedom. It takes courage to stand behind one's opinions, to sign one's name to what one writes and to claim those opinions as one's own. I have always respected students who are brave enough to really dig deep into topics and form an opinion. Take the time this week -- of all weeks -- to share your opinion and speak up for what you believe.
One of my main goals as a journalism teacher is to develop in my students a desire to express themselves, and there is no better time than the annual Free Speech Week. When students truly understand that the freedom of speech guaranteed to Americans in the First Amendment does not simply mean they can say whatever they want wherever they want, they learn to use that freedom. It takes courage to stand behind one's opinions, to sign one's name to what one writes and to claim those opinions as one's own. I have always respected students who are brave enough to really dig deep into topics and form an opinion. Take the time this week -- of all weeks -- to share your opinion and speak up for what you believe.