Mr. Martorano had every right to express his views, and we who criticize have every right to do so. Having the right to free speech doesn't mean you have the right to be free from reprisal or criticism. The first amendment protects you from oppression by the government, not from criticism from an individual or private group. Many people on the left and right have no idea what freedom of speech is, and it is irritating. All I am required to do is tolerate his right to express his bigoted views, but I have the right to criticize and condemn those views after he has expressed them. Free speech is a two-way street. The first amendment was designed to keep the hands of the government out of this exchange. Everyone has a duty to read opinions and form their own. No one should simply ignore views that may upset them. That doesn't mean that they shouldn't be upset and outraged by them. I'll keep reading stupid views from all sides, and I'll keep getting outraged by the particularly stupid ones. That, Pat, is my right and duty as an American.I was talking to
LOL
I love Britta on the unfairness of the Biblical curse. "And where are the snakes for me to crush beneath my heel?" (I hope you feel better soon, dear.)