The headline in Wednesday's Hollywood Reporter tells it all: "Top Senate Republican pushes quick indecency vote."

      The daily continues: "Senate Republican leader Bill Frist is attempting to work out a deal with Democrats to limit debate on legislation that would increase the fines people pay for broadcasting smut so that a vote on the bill could come Thursday."

      That's Thursday, as in tomorrow, April 8.

      This is a war against the First Amendment, folks. A bipartisan coalition--spearheaded by the Republicans, but including also many Democrats--is seeking to chip away at your freedom. Our freedom. Our Freedom today, and our freedom tomorrow. And it's time for all of us to speak up, before it's too late, and we lose some of it--maybe a lot of it.

      One provision of the legislation--which has already passed the House of Representatives--calls for establishing Federal Communications Commission fines against individuals ranging up to $500,000 if they make an indecent act on TV or radio. And companies could face fines of $275,000-$500,000 for each broadcast indecency. And of course, President George W. Bush would sign the bill if it ever comes to his desk.

      As defined by the FCC and the courts, material is indecent if, "In context, depicts or describes sexual or excretory activities or organs in a patently offensive manner as measured by contemporary community standards for the broadcast medium." How's that for vague language? What's the limit?

      Some find talk about sex of any kind offensive. Others find discussion of abortion offensive. In the past, teachers, librarians have been accused of violating "community standards" by teaching books, or allowing books--including classics of literature, such as the work of D.H. Lawrence and Henry Miller--to be on their shelves. In addition, doctors and other health workers have been hauled into court for discussing sex education, abortion, and women's health issues of any kind.

      And yes, let's say it: others, too, have rights to speak out. Without a doubt, Howard Stern and "Bubba the Love Sponge" and all the rest are "patently offensive" to some, but they should still have a right to say their piece, and to make a living. Those who don't like them should not listen to them, and maybe even boycott their sponsors. But trying to knock them off the air--that's just wrong.

      Because in a sense, of course, the censors and bluenoses are correct: given the conservative nature of some communities, and even states, many expressions do violate community standards. But that's why we have a First Amendment--to protect minorities everywhere, anywhere. That's the American Way; we fought a Civil War to make sure that the Bill of Rights applies to all Americans, wherever they might live.

      The American Federation of Television and Radio Artists and the Creative Coalition have led opposition to the legislation. Ivote2004.com is proud to join with them, and all other groups and citizens who care about their freedom.

      This is no drill. If you care about your freedom, and the freedom of others, call your Senator now, 202-224-3121. Tell your Senator that you oppose Frist and his attempt to crimp the First Amendment.


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Contact DQL@ivote2004.com