Bullies shutting down free speech have no place.
It’s problematic enough for companies to be financially pressured by intolerance and bigotry.
But to have stores pull product displays because they fear violence is a whole other level. Everyone, no matter their views on LGBT+ issues, should be outraged by physical intimidation of store workers and merchandise displays over legal commerce. Republicans need to be loud on this. Community patrols should step up to defend merchants.
We shouldn’t let bullies shut down free speech and free commerce in America. Let them know they’re ostracized and outnumbered and won’t be given free reign.
This is happening on college campuses also. Extra security is necessary for unpopular speakers, who are afraid of harm.
The reason bullies are successful at shutting down free speech is because people don’t call out the bullies on their own “side.”
I agree that bullies are bullies, whichever side they are on. Violence and property destruction are not generally the way people should be expressing their views. I take issue with some LGBTQ+ fringe issues but everyone should be able to express their views.
Since I'm not a subscriber, wsj isn't letting me read that article. I do wonder though how much threats of violence are really a factor here or if they are just looking at what has happened to Budweiser. Maybe I'm just being cynical but using 'threats of violence' as an excuse makes Target look a whole lot more sympathetic than if they just decided to remove these products because they were afraid they would impact sales negatively.