Freedom of speech trumps disgust
I’d like to raise what I believe to be the real issue in the Sterling-NBA affair. But first, let’s agree on some facts:
Donald Sterling is a bigot (or racist if you prefer). Previous lawsuits support this.
His phone call to his mistress was typical although extremely offensive.
The United States Constitution guarantees the right to free speech.
He owns the L.A. Clippers, a private business.
He owns season tickets to Clipper’s home games (I assume).
With that all said, let me ask why does the NBA or anyone else have the right to take away his property for exercising his constitutional right to say what he wants to say, however offensive? No one has been hurt by his rant, except possibly the NBA, with its dubious reputation. And has that organization ever punished players or owners for adulterous behavior, fathering illegitimate children, violence off the court or other offenses? Sounds a little self-serving or even hypocritical doesn’t it?
The way to punish Sterling is to not go to Clippers games, to not buy his sponsor’s products and when (or if) he goes anywhere to boo him, exercising our freedom of speech. But not to expropriate private property.
Many centuries ago Voltaire said “I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.” We should follow his lead and defend freedom of speech, however offensive.
— Jack Burke
Salisbury
Now that it’s over, thanks for voting
As I write this, it is Monday, May 5, the day before the primary election, a day to reflect upon how many people I have spoken to concerning this election and how important it is to get involved.
This will be the closest primary ever and the most important that I can remember, with so many candidates running and so much at stake.
Will the conservative tea party Republican candidates I’ve supported emerge victorious? Well, I guess that will depend on tomorrow …
… my wife was sick ‘n I had to take her so-and-so …
… I had to leave town ‘cause o’ this, that ‘n the other thang …
… my foot was actin’ up again so I stayed home …
Regardless of how you voted or who for I would like to say thank you. To every voter who cared enough about their voice to be heard. To get involved.
You cared and it does matter.
Let us set our differences aside (even just for a moment) to remember we are all Americans who care enough about our community to get out there and make a difference.
You did your part, so hold your head up high, regardless of the outcome.
— Tony Haney
Kannapolis