The First Amendment, Dixie Chicks, Conservatives, and Liberals

While searching through scores of blogs, it amazed me at the rhetoric I encountered; that is, the viciousness of it. Over and over again, it was basically this: think as I do or you are unpatriotic. But wait! Surely those spewing forth such clipped and often downright abusive speech aren't from the United States. I'm positive no red-blooded American familiar with the Constitution and the Bill of Rights would NEVER infringe on the rights of another American...right? No. Sad, but true, most Americans haven't the foggiest idea what the Bill of Rights contain, including the First Amendment which basically states: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the eople peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. The Bill of Rights became effective in 1791. I am a liberal; I am an environmentalist; yet, I do NOT deny the freedom of expression of those I most disagree with - the ultra-conservatives. Why? Because, it is our Constitutional right to express ourselves in this country. By denying that right to anyone, you have opened Pandora's Box of possibilities - that is - the removal of our rights and freedoms....our government is doing it, one right at a time. Why must we, ourselves, take them away as well? Instead of denying our freedom of speech, perhaps the narrow-minded individuals from both sides of the spectrum should sit down and have a decent conversation.