That I have the right to express myself freely at all times in all circumstances entails the idea that free speech is a 'basic human right' possessed by each individual, and, as such, trumps the interests of the society or group, including my neighbour.

Free speech includes the right to not speak.

Free speech is the cornerstone to every right we have.

Free speech is not a bogus issue. It is an issue.

Freedom of speech as I define it is more than a right granted by government. It's a process that each of us must believe in and fight for. You cannot have free speech in a world where everyone wants to deplatform you, destroy you, discard you, or distort you for what you say. Freedom of speech only works to the extent that people embrace it. The "right" alone is meaningless.

We fully uphold the right of free speech. But we understand the deep hurt and widespread indignation felt in the Muslim world.