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The Need for Freedom

Category: 2018 Middle School (Grades 6-8)
Student: Lauren Tyler Kinard
School: Waldron Mercy Academy Merion Station, PA
Teacher: Eileen Flanagan

Elbert Hubbard once said “Freedom cannot be bestowed, it must be achieved.” Freedom of speech is an important pillar of our nation's founding principles. Free speech is more than just a good idea, it’s the law. Freedom is a condition in which people have the opportunity to speak and pursue happiness without unnecessary restrictions. Freedom of speech is needed, especially in places that have a dictator. Freedom of expression is a fundamental human right. It reinforces all other human rights, allowing society to progress. The ability to express our opinion freely is essential to bring about change in society.
Being able to speak your mind without fear is necessary for human growth. No one can be happy if they have to conceal their opinions out of fear. Freedom of speech is necessary for self-government. Citizens of a free country have a right to hear all sides of public questions. A choice is not completely free if someone has the power to limit what facts and opinions you are allowed to hear. Freedom of speech is most valuable to the least powerful. The rich and powerful in any framework will be able to make their views known. The poor and marginalized are the ones most in need of the right of free speech. Speaking without fear of penalty is precious. Free speech is crucial for change. Since July 4, 1776 America has become home to more than 90 million immigrants who share our blessings of liberty. These immigrants come and enjoy the same inalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. America is known for its freedom, let’s keep it that way.


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Any views, opinions or commentary expressed by the authors of the winning essays in the American Freedom Essay Contest are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia, its affiliates, its officers, its directors, its employees, its Sponsors, and/or its agents in any manner whatsoever. The Constitutional Walking Tour does not make any guarantees, express or implied, as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of the information contained or quoted in the reprinted essays.
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