Political correctness endangers us

Freedom of speech is the foundation of our free society.

Difference of opinion should be valued, not condemned. Our society cannot grow without new ideas. With free speech people don’t have to resort to violence, but can debate instead. Bad ideas are pushed out by good ideas, not by being told to shut up.

Free speech requires intellectual honesty and openness. When any person or ideology is considered off-limits, a muzzle replaces free speech. Americans have the right to express unpopular opinions and be safe from violence. No idea, group or individual has the right not to be offended.

George Washington said: “If freedom of speech is taken away, then dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep to the slaughter.”

On 9/11 Mohamed Atta, the main hijacker told the American Airlines passengers: “Just be quiet and you’ll be okay … nobody move. Everything will be okay … Just stay quiet.”

We self-censor due to political correctness. Should we be politically correct when people are being killed? Absolutely not, lives are much more important than anyone’s feelings.

If you see something suspicious, say something. Call the police! Ignore political correctness and keep us all safe.

Bryan Hermansdorfer

Danbury