David Cain Has Issues – August 23, 2012 – Freedom of Speech v. Political Correctness

Cain & Herren, ALC, debuted its new talk show, “David Cain Has Issues” on August 23, 2012.  Attendees were David Cain, Esq., (partner of Cain & Herren ALC), Peter Hume (negotiations paralegal at Cain & Herren, ALC), Michael Collins, Esq. (associate at Cain & Herren, ALC), and local radio personalities, Johnny A and Cuzin Larry.

Our first show focused on freedom of speech issues.  Freedom of speech is the political right to communicate one’s opinions and ideas via speech.  It’s governed by the First Amendment.  Freedom of speech is often a right we take for granted.  It essentially gaurantees that the government will not restrict the content of our message.

Some countries don’t have it so lucky.  A feminist punk-rock group in Russia found that out the hard way.  Pussy Riot is a “music” group (term used lightly), which stages sensational and provocative performances usually involving some political or social message.  On February 21, 2012, the group attempted to perform at the Cathedral of Chris the Savior in Moscow.  They performed a piece titled “Holy Mother, Put Putin Away” where they invoked the Virgin Mary to get rid of Russian President Vladimir Putin.  They were later arrested for “hooliganism” and were sentenced to jail time.

Although some may take issue with Pussy Riot’s musical talent, its undeniable that Russia’s reaction to the feminist punk-rock group’s speech was more extreme than an American reaction would have been.  The case highlights how lucky we are to be able to express unpopular viewpoints without the threat of government prosecution.

David Cain Has Issues will air again Thursday, August 30, 2012 at 12:00.  You can catch it on 96.7 FM or 1110 AM.  You can also stream it live or recorded at kaoi1110.com.