BY JOELLEN COLLINS
For the most part, I prefer writing about the amazement of the experiences and sights I have enjoyed. I am not a political columnist, nor do I wish to be one. In my long-ago childhood, we didn’t discuss religion, sex or politics at our dinner tables and, due to relatively supported presidencies, I never heard my parents argue or raise their voices about any of those topics. However, I was also the peacemaker in the family, avoiding at all costs argument and disagreements. It has taken many decades to realize that hearing an unpopular opinion is not only part of learning many aspects of issues, but necessary for accurate communication and the avoidance of a superficial understanding of events. Many years ago, I wrote a column (not for this paper) and mentioned my concerns about the then-current political election. Afterwards, I was flabbergasted and fearful when I received unduly vicious hate mail.
I am a free woman who can discuss controversial issues with friends and family without wrath and anger. I don’t have to be respected, loved, or even tolerated by others. I can spend time with caring people and choose more positive than negative moments at this late part of my life.
Thus, today I change my usually sunny column. As an English teacher, a writer, and avid fan of so many kinds of communication, I am seriously afraid that our beloved American promise of free speech is vanishing quickly. Today, another presidential edict announced denying federal funding and thus limiting our access to NPR. I have already been stunned by the possible destruction of PBS, and threats to defund politically “incorrect” newspapers and magazines.
I have watched the Kennedy Center Honors for as long as I had access to their filming and always felt a surge of delight with the abundance of gifted performers and the freedom of expression that has resulted in such a powerful display of beauty, talent and amazing discipline within our appreciative society. I even had a silly “bucket list” dream to somehow, sometime, be in that audience. The other evening I was gifted with attending a performance here in Walnut Creek, California, of an all-wind instrument orchestra playing some of the most affective pieces from Broadway. Some of us wept a bit and smiled a lot with the powerful and familiar presentation of the gifts we receive from listening to the plethora of options in theater, broadcasting and other media sources.
So what will happen if our broadcasts only conform to the desires of the very wealthy or a regime that doesn’t tolerate opposition to its tastes and political beliefs? I have aways considered America to be the halcyon example of a freely informed citizenry and thus entertained as well by our creative artists. It is not up to the government to silence dissenters or opposition that doesn’t share the tastes of those in power. True power comes from citizens who respect the freedoms of others. Censoring by eliminating radio, TV, motion pictures or communication sources is a truly un-American sin.
