Standard Examiner Editorial - Free Speech

The Standard Examiner Editorial Staff has lashed out at the Brigham City's new "Free Speech Zone" ordinances.  Calling them "Orwellian" at best and a crime against civil rights.  (See Here)  They attack the idea of setting up such zones since it will require approval to use them and 24 hour notice is needed.  They make the connection to possible protests for the upcoming LDS Temple.


I often cited this idea as a potential way around the Griener Gang Bill, but I have to agree with the editorial staff on this issue. My eyes are now open to the realities of what this does. As much as I do not want to see angry protesters at the temple dedication; restricting their rights and creating more government controls over this are wrong.  


The Standard brings they craziness of this new law to light with the following:

We love the irony of this quote from Councilman Bruce Christensen, which could have come directly from George Orwell's classic novel, "1984," that portrays a world of extreme government surveillance and the erosion of a citizen's rights:

"I applaud the mayor and the staff for bringing this forward. It hasn't been a problem in the past, but it could be in the future." (Yes, and little green men armed with guns that shoot poisoned whipped cream might also be a problem in the future.)

Actually, Christensen has blundered into a primary objection to the restrictions -- there's no problem with free speech! Brigham City leaders have an unreasonable fear. These "free speech zones" are just plain stupid and sinister.

Ouch!  What a blow!  I see how this restricts freedom and doesn't really create free speech, but instead restricts speech to those who can get through the application process.  What will stop them from denying ones  application?  This is just wrong.

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