Both Sides Agree on Net Neutrality

When it comes to free speech, both sides agree that the more freedom the better. It is something that people on either side of the spectrum, speficially bloggers, can agree about. Any possible that restricts specific content is bad for both sides. The statements by Michele Combs of the Christian Coalition of America during a hearing on Net Neutrality and free speech on the internet prove this point.

The coalition went as far as protecting NARAL, the pro-choice advocacy group, when Verizon Wireless bocked them sending content out to their subscribers. Verizon wireless eventually backed down after the New York Time's picked up the story and pushed Verizon's inappropriate actions out into the public's awareness. They also pointed out AT&T blocking political speech during a Pearl Jam concert and Comcast blocking access to the bible using file-sharing technology.

When people pick up the phone, the expectation is that their content will not be blocked, and this concept should spread as the access and capabilities of communication via technology spread. A statement from the hearing confirms this:

"If phone companies cannot tell Americans what to say on a phone call, why should they be able to control content or tell us what to say or send in a text message, an e-mail, or anywhere else?

Looks like we will have to fight for the complete freedom of speech once again, but history tells us that something like Net Neutrality will win out, lucky for us.