As journalists, we’re called to objectively point out flaws in elected officials, corporations, and religious and educational institutions. Our investigations provide information and accountability, and protect the public. The editors, journalists and cartoonists at French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo bravely took on that challenge everyday, without worrying about who they might offend.
People should not have to fear for their lives every time they make a joke or call out the powerful. The tragic Charlie Hebdo attack is a stark reminder that freedom of speech, including that of the press, is a privilege that many will try to oppress. Free speech, whether it’s in the form of a cartoon depicting a religious leader or a film poking fun at a North Korean dictator, must be defended. Without it, we become uninformed, passive and at the very least, quite dull.
