Jane Fonda Calls for 'Creative Nonviolent Noncooperation' to Defend Free Speech
LOS ANGELES - On October 1, 2025, actress and activist Jane Fonda called on Americans to engage in "creative nonviolent noncooperation" to defend free speech, a move that has sparked international attention. The appeal comes as hundreds of A-list celebrities have signed on to support the Committee for the First Amendment, an organization revived from its origins during the Red Scare after World War II.
Fonda, who is leading the organization, emphasized the importance of protecting free speech in the United States. "We must stand together - fiercely united - to defend our right to express ourselves freely," she said in a statement. The Committee for the First Amendment aims to promote and protect freedom of expression, which Fonda believes is under threat.
The revival of the Committee for the First Amendment has garnered significant attention globally, with many countries watching the developments closely. "This is not just an American issue; it's a global concern," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a human rights expert at the University of London. "Free speech is essential for democracy, and its erosion can have far-reaching consequences."
The organization was first established in 1947 to counter the Red Scare, a period marked by widespread fear of communism and the suppression of dissenting voices. Fonda's father, Henry Fonda, was one of the founding members.
Fonda's call to action has been met with enthusiasm from many quarters, including Whoopi Goldberg and Billie Eilish, who have both signed on to support the Committee for the First Amendment. "We're not just talking about celebrities; we're talking about ordinary people who want to express themselves freely," Fonda said.
As the debate over free speech continues to unfold in the United States, international observers are closely watching the developments. The European Union has expressed concern over the erosion of free speech in some parts of the world and has called for greater protection of this fundamental right.
The Committee for the First Amendment plans to hold a series of events and rallies across the country to raise awareness about the importance of protecting free speech. Fonda has vowed to continue her efforts to defend this fundamental right, saying, "We will not be silenced."
Background:
The Red Scare was a period in American history marked by widespread fear of communism and the suppression of dissenting voices. The Committee for the First Amendment was established in 1947 to counter this trend and promote freedom of expression.
Additional Perspectives:
Dr. Maria Rodriguez, human rights expert at the University of London: "Free speech is essential for democracy, and its erosion can have far-reaching consequences."
Jane Fonda: "We must stand together - fiercely united - to defend our right to express ourselves freely."
Current Status and Next Developments:
The Committee for the First Amendment plans to hold a series of events and rallies across the country to raise awareness about the importance of protecting free speech. Fonda has vowed to continue her efforts to defend this fundamental right, saying, "We will not be silenced."
*Reporting by Npr.*
