More than 550 Hollywood figures, including Oscar-winning actress Jane Fonda, announced on Wednesday the revival of the "First Amendment Committee," originally formed during the Cold War. They issued a stark warning that the Trump administration is systematically suppressing freedom of speech and dissent, emphasizing that this poses a severe threat to the constitutional order.
This initiative has garnered support from numerous film and television personalities, including actors Natalie Portman, Sean Penn, and Anne Hathaway, as well as acclaimed African-American director Spike Lee and screenwriter Aaron Sorkin. In a joint statement, these celebrities pointed out, "This committee was first established during the McCarthy era, a dark time when the federal government suppressed and persecuted American citizens for their political beliefs. Now, these forces are resurgent, and we must unite to defend the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution."
The First Amendment Committee was initially founded in 1947 during the Cold War by Hollywood legends including Henry Fonda (Jane Fonda's father), Lucille Ball, Humphrey Bogart, Frank Sinatra, and Judy Garland. It was established to combat the anti-communist fervor led by Senator Joseph McCarthy and to protect the arts community from unwarranted political persecution.
In an open letter shared with CNN, Jane Fonda, now 87, stated that having lived through eras of war, oppression, protest, and boycotts—and having been both praised and labeled a public enemy—she possesses a deep perspective on history. She solemnly noted, "The most frightening moment of my life." She called on her Hollywood peers to actively join the effort and stand up for freedom of speech and civil rights.
Related News:
Harvard University to reach US$500 mn settlement with US govt
Deepline | Increasing bipartisan tensions raise fears of prolonged shutdown
Comment