Another Attack on Free Speech

Contrary to what one might expect, The United Nations Human Rights Council, with the support of the Obama Administration, agreed to recognize exceptions to free speech for any "negative racial and religious stereotyping," sometimes referred to as "blasphemy laws." These laws would criminalize speech that denounces or attacks religious values or institutions. (Jonathan Turley, USA Today, 10/19/09)

Free Speech is the of bedrock of democracy. The fact that someone's religious sensibilities are offended by my opinions should not make me a criminal. This country was founded on the belief that its citizens are free to criticize and question leaders and institutions, including religious ones.

Why is it that so many people are so willing to curb free speech? Why should religion and race be exceptions to free speech? Who defines a "religion"? Who defines "blasphemy"? Are not such exceptions just another form of censorship? Why do religions need protection from criticism or satire? If I find someone's speech uncomfortable or inconvenient, do I not have options other than calling for censorship. If it is a crime to criticize a religion, is it also a crime to criticize a religious leader?