Free Speech vs.
Free Consequences
So, you've heard that you have "Free Speech" and think it means you can say whatever you want without getting in trouble?
Spoiler Alert: That's not how it works!
What Free Speech IS
In countries like Australia, the US, and the UK, free speech means the government can't throw you in jail just for having an opinion or criticizing them.
- You can say you don't like the Prime Minister or President.
- You can share your ideas peacefully.
- You can say you think pineapple belongs on pizza (even if it's gross).
What It Is NOT
Free speech is NOT a magical shield that protects you from other people getting mad at you, or from school rules.
- It doesn't mean you can bully people.
- It doesn't stop your principal from giving you detention.
- It doesn't stop you from losing friends if you act like a jerk (or an arse!).
The "Find Out" Game
If you "Mess Around" and say whatever you want, you're going to "Find Out" what the consequences are.
Tap the cards to flip them and see the consequence!
The Gamer Troll
You get mad in a game of Fortnite and start yelling super mean insults at your teammate on the mic.
Tap to flipBANNED!
Consequence: Private companies (like Epic Games) don't care about "free speech". If you break their rules, they ban your account. Say goodbye to your skins!
The Classroom Comedian
The teacher asks you to be quiet, and you yell back, "I have freedom of speech, you can't silence me!"
Tap to flipDETENTION!
Consequence: Schools have rules to keep things running smoothly. Disrupting class isn't protected speech. Enjoy writing lines at lunchtime!
The Gossiper
You start a completely fake rumor about a kid in your class on TikTok just for views.
Tap to flipZERO FRIENDS!
Consequence: Lying to hurt someone's reputation is called defamation. Besides getting into huge trouble, nobody will trust you anymore.
Use Your Brain!
How NOT to act like an arse online (or in real life)
Before you exercise your "free speech", run your words through the T.H.I.N.K. filter:
Is it True? Or are you just spreading rumors?
Is it Helpful? Does it actually fix a problem?
Is it Inspiring? (Okay, not everything is, but is it at least positive?)
Is it Necessary? Do you *really* need to say it out loud?
Is it Kind? If not, keep it in your head.