Eight decades after the original establishment of the Committee for the First Amendment, Jane Fonda is reviving the historic organization during what she describes as “the most frightening moment of my life.” This initiative comes as a response to ongoing concerns over free speech, reminiscent of the struggles faced by Hollywood icons like her father, Henry Fonda, during the repressive McCarthy era.
In a heartfelt letter shared with CNN, the 87-year-old actress and activist urged her fellow members of the entertainment industry to rally around the committee, reflecting on her vast experiences with war, repression, protest, and personal backlash. “When I feel scared, I look to history,” she stated, emphasizing the need for solidarity and collective action in the face of adversity.
The Committee for the First Amendment was originally founded in 1947 to stand up for free speech amid growing government pressures. At that time, its members were heavily scrutinized for their perceived links to the Communist Party, a concern that many of its members actively fought against. Fonda’s revival of the committee has already attracted the support of over 550 prominent figures in Hollywood. Notable supporters include Aaron Sorkin, Barbra Streisand, Glenn Close, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, among many others.
Fonda’s decision to relaunch the committee follows recent events where free speech has come under fire, such as the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel’s show amid pressure from political leaders. Although Kimmel has since returned to his program, the incident sparked renewed dialogue regarding the importance of free expression and the risks of political influence over media.
Fonda’s letter underscored that “the stakes are too high and silence is too costly,” asserting that the entertainment industry has a rich legacy of resisting censorship and standing up against oppressive forces. A spokesperson for the newly reconvened committee indicated that Fonda was motivated to take action in light of perceived threats to free speech under the current administration and aims to create a unified front against what they view as intimidation and censorship.
The committee reaffirmed that the right to free speech transcends political affiliations, stating, “Free speech and free expression are the inalienable rights of every American of all backgrounds and political beliefs – no matter how liberal or conservative you may be.” This enduring principle highlights the critical role that open dialogue plays in maintaining the democratic fabric of America, inspiring hope for continued advocacy in the realm of free expression.