Je Suis Charlie

Bonjour Ma Mere, Much of the world's attention has been focused on Paris recently, as you must know. I'll have you know I'm very safe, as the attack of Charlie Hebdo and his publication occurred in the 11th arrondissement, and I live all the way on the opposite side of Paris in the 16th. The suspects fled to a village far northeast of Paris, near the border, and I am far out of harm's way. The attack has obviously set Paris into a great state of mourning, including a minute of silence practiced by all of Paris at noon a few days ago. The attack was tragic and shocked many, owing to the fact that a group of French Islamic extremists killed 12 people associated with Charlie Hebdo, the satirical newspaper editor and cartoonist. Across the world, news outlets and civilians alike have been riled up over the implications of the attack, including the aspects of freedom of speech and freedom of press. Many have conflicting views over the incident, stating that Hebdo should not have published the cartoons, as they were deemed offensive by certain groups, and that a metaphysical line was crossed in the world of free press. I think that, owing to the fact that the publication was in fact satire and not a serious publication, there were no problems with Hebdo and co publishing the potentially offensive material in the first place. One of the many points of satirical material such as this is to cause conversation and discussion regarding the material, and the social events it may or may not portray. Whether or not a group is offended by the given material, free press and free speech, which are part of French and American society and law alike, state that you can publish and say whatever you choose, regardless of nature. I think this heavily applies to this, as there was no problem in my opinion with the publication issuing this material, they had done so before and knew the risks associated with the groups they were referring to, and were prepared to deal with the consequences. They surely did not expect to be killed over it, however, and their deaths have been referred to as martyrs to the cause of free speech. It is indeed a terrible event that has occurred, but I believe Charlie and his publication were right in being able to publish the material, regardless of who it may have offended.