In the United States, the right to dissent and speak freely is essential to democracy.  

President Donald Trump campaigned on a promise of free speech. But under his administration some forms of speech and viewpoints carry harsh consequences.

MPR News host Catharine Richert and her guests talk about who feels free to speak, who feels silenced and whether it’s possible for everyone to be heard. It’s part of the MPR News Talking Sense series helping Minnesotans have hard political conversations … better.

Guests:

• Jane Kirtley is a professor of media ethics and law at the University of Minnesota where she directs the Silha Center for the Study of Media Ethics and Law. She also served as executive director of The Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press for 14 years, practiced law and worked as a reporter.  




• Manu Meel is the CEO of BridgeUSA, a national organization that helps young people engage in respectful, productive dialogue and disagreement through its chapters on university campuses across the country.  

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Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.