Monday, August 20, 2018
#FREESPEECH IN THE NEWS: AUGUST 20, 2018
As the Citadel of Free Speech here in Cleveland, we work to protect and promote the basis of our democracy by sharing related stories, commentary, and opinions on free speech in the 21st century. Here's what's making the news – and what you should know about – in the past week.
A former employee with the city of Cleveland will receive a settlement after suing the city for infringing on their free speech rights and working conditions.
The employee worked at a garbage transfer station on Ridge Road and says the station forbid employees from speaking to the media and restricting social media use. They will receive $75,670, $52,870 going to lawyers.
"Because the city's speech restrictions threaten employees with disciplinary action, any reasonable person would be reluctant to put her job in jeopardy by publicly disclosing information of public concern," the lawsuit said. "Only now, after securing legal counsel, has she concluded that she may safely communicate this information publicly without compromising her livelihood."
2.) Malaysia scraps 'fake news' law used to stifle free speech
The “fake news law” out of Malaysia that had rights groups around the world concerned has been shelved, according to the Malaysian government.
Prime Minister Najib Razak introduced the law in March, and he now faces up to 125 years in jail for corruption. The law would have required fines up to 500,000 ringgit or $120,00 and up to six years in prison for those convicted.
Parliament voted to repeal the law after a three-hour debate.
3.) Shopify Bans the Sale of Some Semi-Automatic Firearms and 3D-Printed Guns
A new Shopify Inc. policy is piquing the interest of first and second amendment advocates.
Shopify Inc., a Canadian-based online store provider, has banned the sale of semi-automatic weapons, 3-D printed guns and firearm accessories. The platform is primarily made up of American users.
“Solely deferring to the law, in this age of political gridlock, is too idealistic and functionally unworkable on the fast-moving internet,” Chief Executive Officer Tobi Lutke said in a blog post.
The platform says only a small number of users will be affected.
