Sorry I Didn't Say that to Hurt You- by Amber Zia Khan

Freedom of speech is a basic right of every person but sometimes this right can be taken advantage of in many negative ways. American colleges host a diverse mixture of ethnic, racial and sexual groups students who come together to study and learn about life. Students should exercise freedom of speech on campus to make their voices heard to showcase and discuss educational, social problems and curricular activities not to abuse this right without disparaging others.


At my academic institution you can speak about many topics including education and school activities. In my experience you can freely talk about other ethnic backgrounds, politics, religion, sex, status, color, gender and race and this has a positive effect on for many people. For those who have biases for other person’s religion or background can offend others feelings by saying what beliefs they hold inside. The other result might be that it turns out to be a huge fight if they both disrespect each other by saying negative comments which could tarnish school’s reputation and increase misunderstanding between communities.

One situation to consider would be elections and how freedom of speech from campus students can affect which candidates will win. In my opinion freedom of speech is highly neglected in educational institutions and often their opinions are not considered or valued.

I would suggest that having open forums on race, ethnicity, color or religion are discussed on campus would provide an opportunity for open discussion of different viewpoints. Having these open forums would create a focal point for people with different views on race, religion, sexuality and ethnicity to speak freely and encourage freedom of speech with respect for others.

Therefore in my opinion freedom of speech is better exercised when we use the adage “sometimes less is more.”


Amber Zia Khan has been elected is Editor at the newsletter for the 2011-2012 Manhattan Student Council in December 2011. We look forward to posting more articles from her as the year continues.

Photography by J. Wesley Beeks