The Eight Values of Free Expression -- Promote Innovation

     Imagine how terrifyingly boring Earth would be without creativity. A place where every "individual" was the same; they shared the same thoughts and ideas. Well, that does not really make them an individual then. Right? Right. Our world functions because of the creativity and innovation that humans have curated over time. The ideal community is where opinions are prioritized and human protection is valued rather than ignored. Embracing the fundamental right of speech is essential to efficiency. Revoking this right can and has led to chaos and dangerous environments. Also, why revoke the main thing that makes us different? Acknowledging that there is nobody else in the entire world that is exactly like you is a pretty fascinating thing to think about. It is important to focus on the fact that we can, and should, freely disagree with the government and any of its legislation. Having that power is what continues to give society hope in times where they may feel silenced. 

    Especially in the last two years, many parties of society have had to rely on their right of speech because they knew it was the first step in feeling secure in the process. I personally feel that our freedom is the most important and valuable right we have as well as the one that is most frequently questioned. It always seems like there is consistent questioning when it comes to determining if a statement or action is constitutionally considered free speech. This conversation can feel extremely conflicted because, on one side, it is necessary to establish where the lines lie so they are not violated. On the other hand, at this point in history everyone should be on the same page when it comes to defining speech. In this day and age, for some reason it seems like free speech is only a top priority for a limited group of people. Why is this? Do people feel like there is not a point in standing up because they will be silenced, or maybe ignored? Are people living in an environment where they feel they could be targeted for their opinions? Is that person's race, ethnicity, socioeconomic background, age, or gender preventing them from expressing themself? Do some people just not care enough to use their voice? Speaking your truth is not something someone should second guess themselves on. 

    Creativity and authenticity is what keeps the world refreshing. If you look around your community you will run into doctors, teachers, singers, military officers, painters, caregivers and so much more. That is pretty remarkable to think that in such a small area of the world you can find a little bit of everything. It is not just our jobs either, it is our interests, passions, beliefs, understandings. If everyone thought the same and was on the same mental level, that would be emotionally and mentally stunting. By growing, not just as humans but as a nation, we are constantly challenging ourselves and working to be better. This slight competition is what humans thrive over; our freedom of speech helps us stand out and make a difference.