It’s time we realize how “free speech” is being weaponized. More and more, we’re seeing it used as an excuse in the online world, specifically about Jews. Someone calls a Jewish person a slur and then shouts “free speech” when we push back.
The reality is: free speech doesn’t protect anyone from the consequences of their words. You can say what you want — no one can stop you from speaking. But that doesn’t mean you’re immune from accountability, especially when your words are hateful, harmful, or untrue.
Lately, people have been using the First Amendment not to encourage open dialogue, but to shield themselves from responsibility. It’s being twisted into a defense for open antisemitism — for spreading hate, lies, and conspiracy theories. When universities cut ties with hate groups or when employers take action against bigoted posts, suddenly there are cries of “censorship.”
The reality is: that’s not censorship. That’s society saying we won’t normalize hate.
Free speech under the First Amendment means the government can’t punish you for expressing unpopular views. That’s it. It doesn’t mean you’re free to harass Jews online, stalk them, or use slurs without consequences. It doesn’t guarantee you a microphone, a platform, or a job.
And let’s be straight: none of this violent rhetoric is “freeing Palestine.” Hate-filled comments do not free anyone or solve conflicts. They only amplify division and make the path to peace even harder. Calling for “Intifada” on a college campus isn’t activism — it’s incitement. Accusing Jews of controlling the media, banks, or governments isn’t edgy or brave — it’s recycled propaganda. Denying the Holocaust or celebrating October 7 isn’t free expression — it’s hate speech and the attempt to erase a massacre .
The fact is: this isn’t protest. It’s propaganda. The oldest hatred is wearing a new mask.
When Jewish students say they feel unsafe, when Jewish employees speak up about antisemitic behavior, or when Jewish communities say “enough,” that is free speech. It’s the right to demand safety, dignity, and truth.
No one gets to cry “cancel culture” when people reject hate. No one gets to claim victimhood because their Holocaust denial or antisemitic lies were called out.
Free speech isn’t a one-way street.
It gives you the right to speak — but it also gives others the right to respond. And when your words threaten a community that has endured centuries of persecution, don’t be surprised when the response is strong, passionate, and unwavering. Jews are no longer willing to remain silent to make others comfortable. We will not minimize our fear or our truth just to make hate sound reasonable.
The reality is: words have power. And when those words target Jews, we will speak out — not with anger, but with courage and clarity.
We will continue to call antisemitism by its name, no matter what banner or “Amendment” it hides behind.
You are free to speak. But you are not free to harm without consequence.