A Call for Freedom

Well, looks like it's the beginning of the end for us bloggers. Simple - or perhaps all too complicated - campaign regulation rules have a potential for sliding down the slippery slope of on-line limitations, possibly endangering the First Amendment.

If this is indeed the case, I'm not even sure what category to nominate it for. "Witchhunt" for bloggers is certainly a possibility. I'm against censorship and I support our freedom of press and expression. I came from an area infamous for its oppressive climate, its suppression of dissenting voice. I'm against limitations on blogging. It may not be true journalism, but it's certainly an important way of expression and show of discontent. (This is coming from an ardent defender of the PATRIOT Act.)

The Orwellian possibilities seem endless. I'm sure you can imagine where even the most basic suppression of freedoms can lead. However, before we panic, we should look at this proposed bill objectively.

First of all, bloggers are not all alone in the world. There exists a Committee to Protect Bloggers. So if worst comes to worst, these people can be notified and perhaps they'll be to help.

Secondly, let's examine the bill itself. How far do regulations go? According to the article above, that part seems rather nebulous, and is yet to be defined and interpreted in more clear terms. Until then, let's not jump to conclusions. Would a few restrictions dealing with technical campaign details really affect the entire blogging world? Maybe, maybe not. It all depends on how extensive they are. Perhaps we would need to register before we get permission to link to the political candidate, perhaps we'll have to pay. Perhaps we'll need to put disclaimers, etc. Let's not forget that if we want to keep our campaigns fair and responsible, we should follow a clear set of rules, Internet included. If there are ways to rob banks using computers, they can be ways to cheat in campaigns online, and we should recognize that such a problem can come up.

Thirdly... somehow I doubt that McCain's intentions are as devious as it may seem to be. I doubt he really intents to shut up all the bloggers, since such a gesture would harm his many conservative supporters. In other words, this bill is probably going to be formulated in a much more specific way before it passes. If it even passes.

I understand the temptation for hysteria a notion of such a bill raises. Nevertheless, I believe that the blogging community is numerous and powerful enough to successfully resist any attempts to infringe on our rights. And the (perhaps imaginary) Big Brother will certainly take that into account before making any steps. Bloggers are voters.

I urge everyone to research the bill and its intentions before taking any action. My own statement is such: I love the freedom that the blogging world offers. I love the blogging community and my ability connect to many interesting people I would never have known otherwise. I love the efficacy we're afforded, the grassroots ability to affect the world around us. I love the alternative sources of information, the numerous view points, the craziness, the wit, the sarcasm, the spirit, the courage of people who open their souls and their minds to others every day. I love the determination and the strength behind these amateur - or professional writers. I love all the outlets that the blogging world can give. It is a truly democratic tool. And I love democracy. I may have said "love" one too many times, but it correctly expresses the passionate feeling I have for this community and for all the opportunities it gives. I'm ready to defend what I love. I'm ready to fight for it. Who's with me?

Challenging,
Irina