Akin and the Legitimacy of the First Amendment

Representative Todd Akin, now infamous for his use of one of the most insensitive adjectives to describe rape, refuses to drop out of the race. His GOP colleagues in Missouri asked him to, and Mittens indirectly suggested he do so – as in “follow the advice of your colleagues.”

He decided to dig in his heels, and I’m giving him credit for being impassioned and unwavering. He has every right to say what he wants, even if it is cruel and humiliating. As many of you know, I’m a staunch supporter of free speech. That includes repugnant crap that Akin spewed.

It reminds me of that quote by Evelyn Beatrice Hall when she spoke of Voltaire’s views:

“I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.”

This doesn’t mean we can’t call him out on it. Freedom of speech goes both ways. He offended so many women, being especially cruel to those who have been raped. I’m glad people spoke out too, especially rape victims. This article was especially poignant: Rape Victim Reacts To Todd Akin’s Comment: Delivering ‘Baby Of A Rapist’ Is ‘Torture’ More women need to share these stories. It will help victims who heard his comments not to start to think that what they went through wasn’t “legitimate.”

Message to Todd: I understand your stubborn resolve, as I have a lot of that too. You unleashed the wrath of many, including those in your own party. All I can say is good luck with all that. You’ll need it in the days leading to November.