SMSC
Charlie Hebdo
RIP
Twelve people died when a bloody attack was launched on the office of France's satirical
magazine Charlie Hebdo. The following day a policewoman was murdered by Amedy
Coulibaly, who held up a Jewish supermarket killing a further four people.
The actions of these terrorists have been condemned by all faith groups and the world has
joined France in solidarity.
The atrocity in Paris has given rise to debate about free speech.
Je Suis Charlie
Is the slogan adopted by supporters free speech and resistance to armed
threats.
Many journalists embraced the expression as a rallying cry for the freedom
of self-expression.
Article 19.
Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion
and expression; this right includes freedom to
hold opinions without interference and to
seek, receive and impart information and
ideas through any media and regardless of
frontiers.
Another
view
French Muslims are disgusted by the shootings in Paris but nonetheless have
reasons for not embracing the slogan "I am Charlie".
For a Muslim, the Prophet Muhammad is sacred, to draw his image is a deeply
offensive act.
Would you be happy if someone insulted you because of your race, religion or
gender? We must respect free speech but does this give a right to offend?
I am Ahmad
As the terrorist stormed the office in Paris with guns
and rocket-propelled grenades, Police officer Ahmed
Merabet challenged the attackers.
Shocking footage showed Mr Merabet being
executed in the street. He was a 42-year-old bicycle
patrolman, who also happened to be Muslim
Tributes have poured in for the heroic officer killed in
the line of duty. Under the rallying cry of 'I am
Ahmed', thousands have shown solidarity
Some pointed out he died protecting those who
poked fun at his religion.
Controls to Freedom of
Speech
UK Racial Hatred Act 1995 – You cannot print or
say racist things.
In Germany it is illegal to deny the holocaust.
Perjury –You can not lie in Court
Your views. Have a class discussion.
Should the media be allowed to print
offensive images? Or should the harm and
offence be taken into account?
If all mankind minus one were of one opinion,
and only one person were of the contrary
opinion, mankind would be no more justified
in silencing that one person than he, if he had
the power, would be justified in silencing
mankind. (1978, 16)John Stuart Mill