WASHINGTON – October 11, 2023 – Today Foundation for Individual Rights and Expressionthe leading national organization in favor of freedom of expression, announced a six-figure advertising campaign raise awareness and support the protection of free speech for all Americans.
The campaign includes a two-minute sports-themed commercial that will air nationally on NBC during the primetime USC vs. Notre Dame college football game on Saturday, October 14 at 7:30 p.m. ET.
The announcement, which can be seen here, takes a humorous approach to the problem: It shows two football announcers talking while one player – the star quarterback – kneels at midfield. One of the presenters, liberal, initially supports his action while the other, conservative, criticizes him. The scenario reverses when the player begins to express support for religion and the unvaccinated.
The ad’s message demonstrates that although the political views of fans and viewers differ radically, their commitment to a culture of free speech should not. While we may disagree on things like national anthem protests, the ad suggests that we should all come together around our shared value of free speech, regardless of political views or beliefs. beliefs of the speaker. The ad’s end card says, “Freedom of speech is for everyone, no matter what team you’re on,” while a voiceover tells viewers to “join the movement for freedom.” freedom of expression “.
WATCH ANNOUNCEMENT: Free speech is for everyone, no matter what team you’re on
“We can disagree with each other about our favorite sports teams – sometimes loudly, until we are red in the face – without demanding that those we disagree with be silenced,” said Executive Vice President of FIRE Nico Perrino. “This spirit of free expression should also extend beyond sport. Freedom of expression is a principle of fair play: we must defend everyone’s right to express themselves, regardless of the “team” they belong to. This is the goal of this campaign.
To connect with FIRE spokespeople about this campaign or our work on free speech more broadly, please contact Tony Franquiz at [email protected].
