Dear Source:
Is free speech really free? Perhaps, it is not on St. Croix. Freedom of speech is a civil right cherished by citizens in democratic societies. According to Amendment I of the U.S. Constitution, "Congress shall make no law…abridging the freedom of speech…" It is a right that people fought vehemently to obtain and continue to vigorously guard. At this moment, there are people who wish to have freedom of speech, but their government prohibits it. The U.S. Virgin Islands happens to be an American Territory; yet, there are residents of St. Croix who actually oppose freedom of speech.
The supporters of the cause to get rid of "Free Speech", a radio talk show hosted by Roger W. Morgan, are not concern with foregoing their own freedom of speech. These self-righteous citizens' mission is to suppress the radio host's freedom of speech. The self-appointed protectors believe that it is their duty to defend the "public's interest". They fear that ordinary citizens may succumb to the "imaginary evil" of the host.
This must be a joke, right? It is said though, that the truth is sometimes stranger than fiction. The FCC folks are probably laughing at the complaint filed by a small group of citizens, especially the claim that Mr. Morgan is conspiring to overthrow the government. Although it may sound incredible and/or ridiculous, there is a movement on St. Croix to deny freedom of speech. The increasing popularity of "Free Speech" appears to disturb the critics of the program. The host, Mr. Morgan, is being viewed as an "enemy of the state." He has been accused of violating FCC rules (the evidence is not available to the public) and now there is a campaign to eliminate the program from the airwaves.
Fear is clearly the tactic being used to influence the thoughts of the citizens; tyrants use this as a weapon to control the masses. Fear prevents people from taking risk. To call a radio talk show is to risk being ridicule or criticize. The people who are protesting the transfer of FCC license to Mr. Morgan apparently have convinced a few people about alleged violations of FCC rules. As a participant on "Free Speech" and a frequent listener, I am aware that the host has not violated any FCC rules; therefore, I am not fooled by their propaganda. Title 18 of the U.S. Code, Section 1464, prohibits the utterance of indecent or profane language by means of radio communications. While it is the job of the FCC to enforce policy consistent with indecency laws, it must be mindful of the First Amendment and Section 326 of the Communications Act, which prohibits FCC from "censoring program material, or interfering with broadcasters' free speech rights." In order words, the FCC cannot stop obnoxious broadcasters from making certain racial slurs or using language offensive to a few individuals.
Contrary to a myth about "Free Speech", the program does not promote divisiveness or segregation of the community. Opinions are never unanimous. The diverse population of St. Croix has always been economically segregated. There are several political parties. "Free Speech" does not incite racism or evoke hatred. Racist people have always existed on the planet. However, our laws do not permit them to practice discrimination; their right to express their racist view is protected. The hate-mongers in our society are allowed to express their opinions on other talk shows.
"Free Speech" is not very different from other radio talk shows; the host's unique style is just more interesting than other radio personalities. Bashing politicians is a favorite American pastime. President Bush is often called "stupid." Don Imus was fired by CBS for making derogatory comment (He will get a hefty sum from a settlement). Roger W. Morgan has never slander anyone on his program nor has he violated any indecency laws If so, why has a lawsuit not been filed?
Curiosity apparently made Adam and Eve overcame their fear of eating the forbidden fruit. They were cursed with the knowledge of good and evil. To those who condemn Mr. Morgan, please let me suffer the same fate. I want to know the bias, narrow-minded, and hateful opinions of certain callers. I want to hear Mr. Morgan's criticism of politicians. Your conflict with him is personal. Delaying the transfer of his FCC license is vindictive and sends the wrong message Focus on improving our community and cease your interference of "Free Speech."
Verdel L. Petersen
St. Croix
