"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
One of the greatest things about America is the Constitution of the United States that was written over two hundred years ago. Ask any naturalized citizen and they say that the ability to speak freely is a right that other Americans take for granted. Take the case of Kareem Amer, an Egyptian blogger who is now in jail for speaking his opposition to the Egyptian president.
I think all humans have the right to speak their mind. However, I forget that as an American I am free to speak my mind and when someone who is not American is put in jail for voicing their opposition to a government official of their own country, I remember just how fortunate I am.
The First Amendment of the US Constitution is the Freedom of Speech -- Americans can speak their minds - protest for or against a subject; criticize the government, the President, or any other topic they wish to communicate.
I know in a post 9-11 world some may say that the First Amendment has been somewhat diminished. I think to a certain extent this is true; however, where else in the world can you express your views but in America. This is what makes the country great.
Even illegal immigrants speak their minds -- take the protests held around the country to protect illegal immigrants in the US.
As Americans we take for granted the rights we have. It is still the land where people want to emigrate to achieve their own American dream.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
2 comments:
Marian - Ameen sista! I totally agree with you. I couldn't imagine being born in a place were everything I said would be watched and scrutinized. I believe that we (American women) are blessed to be born in the USA. We have freedoms that women in other countries only wish they could have.
Many times, I felt that I was very outspoken in Egypt. I mainly did it to get them thinking different...and also to get a little shock out of them LOL ;) naughty me!
What you said, I couldn't have said it better myself.
Love and Hugs to you!
Karen - Yes, it is difficult to imagine living in another country; but remember as Americans, we have protections that others do not have. I hope your father is feeling better. That's a miserable injury. I hope he comes with you . . . love.
Layla - The blog entries written about your blog just set me off -- in a good way. I had to digest this topic over a couple of days before posting. You are absolutely right, in general we "American" women living in Egypt are seen as outspoken, strong women even though we may not feel it; we find it difficult to fathom others who do not; especially women. Maybe that is why I find it difficult to connect with most Egyptian women; except for the strong ones. Love and prayers.
Post a Comment