Question

America and the World

"If it had not been for the men and women who, in the past, have had the moral courage to go to jail, we would still be in the jungles."
— Eugene V. Debs, June 16, 1918
As the United States entered into World War I, the Sedition Act made it a crime to say or write anything that was “intended to incite, provoke, or encourage resistance to the United States.” It also allowed the postal system to refuse to deliver any mail with the same kind of messages. Eugene V. Debs, the Socialist leader, was arrested and put in jail for giving a speech against the draft.

Imagine someone you know was arrested for speaking out against World War I. You want to write a letter to your local newspaper to protest the Sedition Act. Of course, the post office may refuse to deliver your letter. And if it is published, you risk being arrested yourself.

Questions
What would you say in your letter to the newspaper?
Now imagine you are the editor of the paper that receives a letter like this. If you print it, you will be arrested, too. Your family and friends may have to answer questions from the police. What would you do?
Respond to a student who chose to do the opposite. Try to talk them into doing what you would do. Links to an external site.

Answer 1

In my letter to the newspaper, I would explain why the Sedition Act was wrong and how it was an infringement on the right to free speech. I would also emphasize the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of potential consequences.

If I were the editor of the paper that received a letter like this, I would print it. I believe that it is important to take a stand for what is right, even if it is difficult or dangerous. I would also make sure to take precautions to protect myself and my family from any legal repercussions.

To the student who chose to do the opposite, I would explain why taking a stand for what is right is important. I would also emphasize that it is possible to take a stand without putting oneself or one's family in danger, and that taking the easier route is not always the right one. I would explain how the Sedition Act is a violation of the right to free speech, and how it is important to protect this right even if it is difficult or dangerous.