freespeechThe ACLU of Virginia commends the Jefferson-Madison Regional Library Board of Trustees for its recent decision to create a new Freedom of Speech case for public displays at Charlottesville’s Central Branch.
Previously, the library had required such displays be “age appropriate” and “balanced in their presentation of public issues.” This suggested that decisions about displays by the library (a government agency) would be content or viewpoint driven. The library’s board was forced to re-examine that policy after some patrons complained about a pro-abortion rights display sponsored by the Charlottesville chapter of the National Organization for Women.
Last week, the board actually widened its policy, rightly recognizing that free speech must include discussion of challenging and even divisive issues, such as religious, political and social messages. The new display case will be in an area that only adults use and placed at least 20 feet from the front door. Only obscene, defamatory or material that incites is prohibited.
While certain displays might continue to offend some patrons’ sensibilities, it should be clear now that the library has created a public forum. Its contents represent the views of their sponsors and not the library or government. Should anti-abortion advocates choose to exercise their right to free speech, they can take a turn sharing a message in the display case.
When government creates a public forum, all viewpoints are welcomed. Kudos to the library board for understanding that opening up rather than contracting the forum is the right way to ensure free speech.