Playing Nice

Can somebody point out where in the Constitution it says that we have the right to anonymous free speech?  I love the Bill of Rights, but I hate what the Supreme Court has done with it.  I’m no strict constructionist but I believe that the First Amendment right to freedom of speech was intended to protect the village criers and the soap box rabble rousers – in other words, people you could walk up to in the street and listen, or not, to what they have to say, look them in the eye, and know their face; people you could point to and ask around about; people you had an opportunity to know personally.  There is nothing anonymous about that.  If you want anonymity, do it in the press.  But if you want free speech, be prepared to reveal who you are or keep your mouth shut.

I am prepared to speak freely, and I have nothing to hide.  My name is Keith Edward Freeman.  I live in Madison Heights, MI, with my wife and kids.  I’m in the phone book.  Free speech doesn’t come with a privacy shield, and I am willing to be the modern day village crier that anyone can point to and ask around about.  That’s me in the corner.  Who are you?

If you want to join the conversation in this town square, you’ll have to play by my rules.  To post comments, you’ll have to register.  I will moderate the comments and trash ones from users who do not sufficiently personally identify themselves.  Otherwise, you are free to say whatever you want as long as it’s on topic.  Remember the village square.  Hecklers could be forcibly removed if necessary.  Speak to me and my comments, speak to the subject matter, identify yourself.  Those are the requirements.  That’s how to play nice.