Where does freedom and the right of free speech serve us best?

One thing that is so wonderful about our democracy and country is our ability to speak to all issues and not be put in jail, fined, or harassed by government. Freedoms and the right of free speech is not something that should ever be taken for granted.

We must realize that the power of free speech does not come without risk and costs. There are plenty of arguments made and blogs written that turn my stomach and provide a great deal of angst to a majority of citizens. While I am sure the writers and professors of these (Steve don't like) announcements believe they are true and just.

Now, when the Iranian government shuts down protests and the Chinese limit access and prevent demonstrations, many folks including myself object to these intolerance's and inability to speak, gather,or even write publications. We pretty much all agree that these governments should let them speak and express their opinions as we can do here in our great country.

What happens in our Country, State, or even within our local community when we disagree with the government. Are we imprisoned, shackled, burnt at the stake? No, we have a right to protest, go to meetings and express our opinions. I find it very fortunate that all members of the City Council are good listeners and care deeply about the expressions of our citizens.

During the last election we reached out to 100's and 1000's of folks and invited comments and discussions and talked about the budget, seniors, streets, schools, the lakefront, businesses, and open government. Many good interactions took place and suggestions were made for the betterment of our community.

These interactions should not stop immediately after elections are over. We should use our right of free speech openly and often to express our thoughts, gather information on others thoughts, and cultivate a constant and open dialog that is forever evolving. We should not be afraid of the evolution of dialog. The right of free speech is not only required in communist and fascist regimes, it should also be actively exercised in our home town debates and dialog every day of the week.