The Consequences of Political Correctness and the Importance of Free Speech

Political correctness led to speech policing and the creation of a list of microaggressions at the University of California. Some examples include asking where someone is from and enjoying Taco Tuesday. While some forms of cultural appropriation, like blackface, are offensive, others, such as dressing up in a Mexican sombrero or Native American costume, are more debatable. However, the problem arises when people become afraid to speak their minds due to the fear of offending others. It is important to distinguish between government censorship and societal norms. While it is necessary to be polite, we should not be silenced on important topics such as immigration, abortion, and gender issues. Conflicting rights, like those of transgender individuals and women in sports, also need to be discussed openly and respectfully. The inability to engage in these conversations leads to hate and misunderstandings. We must be willing to consider different arguments and make informed decisions.