You Could Just Be Quiet

The Philippines is a democratic country, and so it is stated in the 1987 Constitution, Article III, Section 4 that "No law shall be passed abridging the freedom of speech, of expression, or of the press..." However, we should always remember that for every liberty, there is a corresponding responsibility; for every right, there is a corresponding limit.

Referring to black people as 'niggas' is NOT freedom of speech. Saying that women belong to the kitchen is NOT freedom of speech. Telling your kids not to be gay is NOT freedom of speech. Talking about your irrelevant womanhood experiences to trans women is NOT freedom of speech.

Racism, sexism, homophobia, and transphobia are all forms of discrimination. Discrimination on the basis of race, nationality, sexual orientation, and gender identity is a manifestation of social injustices and inequality, and is declared illegal by the law.

Being black does not make them any less of a person. Being a woman does not automatically limit her achievements. Being anything other than straight does not make these people disgusting.

Freedom of speech does not authorize racist, sexist, homophobic, and transphobic remarks. Freedom of speech is not meant to hurt and downgrade people of different color and gender. Freedom of speech does not tolerate discrimination.

People are beautiful regardless of race, age, skin color, sexual orientation, social status, and culture. These should not define them.

Let us fight bigotry and patriarchy. Let us stand up for equality.

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