By now you've seen the signs, heard the demonstrators, and probably have 'liked' the phrase on social media.
Charlie Hebdo is the name of the satirical French newspaper, much like "The Onion" (started in Madison 1988), was attacked by terrorists this past Wednesday apparently because of political cartoons about muslim terror groups and their leaders.
Guns and violence used to kill writers and artists with a goal of stopping speech.
I am Charlie.
In response many took to the streets to stand with the paper, we need more Charlie.
For our communities, countries, and world to function - as citizens we need and deserve free speech and sharing of opinions.
Journalists are in danger now in many parts of the world for doing their job uncovering and covering the news. Silencing speech ultimately doesn't work.
What are these terrorists afraid of? It would seem if they believe in their cause - lines on paper wouldn't be a bother.
Late night comics, op-ed pages, and coffee clutches depend on a conversation about and sometimes opposed to the people in power. I'll admit, and have written, that I believe we are sometimes losing the positive function of civil discourse through this - but offensive language needs to be heard and protected.
That's what Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, Ben Franklin, James Madison, John Adams, and the those who established the United States established in creating this experiment in democracy.
There is no need to protect the speech and words with which everyone agrees, but unpopular speech. Elections and campaigns can sort out the difference in opinion as to what should become law.
Yes, there are times and issues worth going to war. But, I believe generally that respect for views you find abhorrent is a strength and not a weakness like these terror groups and some governments do - and that it is up to us to speak in whatever form we can.
Je suis Charlie.
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