THE EFFICACY OF STOPPING SPEECH

To the Editors of the CRIMSON:

Freedom of speech is important. It is important because it provides the chance for powerless individuals, to affect the course of political events. Individuals representing institutions-such as the intended speakers for the YAF teach-in-already have power: They control the media; they direct the armed forces. They have the "freedom" to support and direct a vicious imperialist war. They have the power, to suppress protest against this war. When these people use their power in neglect of the people they officially represent, they must be stopped. The real issue, then, is finding the most effective means of stopping them. We may question the efficacy of stopping speech as a means of stopping action, but we do not question our right to challenge illegitimate authority by whatever means necessary.