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Free expression granted for all

Leading up to the Feb. 23 airing of the Grammys, a controversy arose due to the pairing of two singers. For those unaware, Eminem has been highly criticized for his albums – both good and bad. Many of his songs contain lyrics that are slated as “homophobic” and contain derogatory statements against gays and lesbians as well as violence against women. Elton John is an award-winning singer who is openly gay and was the recipient of an award given by the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Discrimination (GLAAD), applauding his efforts in fighting homophobia.

The unlikely pairing of the duo and the fact that Eminem was nominated for four Grammys incited many people and organizations to protest the Grammys for allowing Eminem to perform as well as be nominated. Gay and lesbian groups were also protesting John for applauding Eminem and performing with an artist who promotes defamatory epithets against gays and lesbians. GLAAD spokesperson Scott Seamin said, “It’s hurtful;” and in reference to John’s award “Elton’s action now totally violates the spirit of the award.”

Where were the protesters in 1992 when Elton John performed with another controversial artist who was allegedly homophobic Axl Rose, of Guns ‘N Roses? At the MTV Music Videos Awards John and Rose performed the commercial hit of the year “November Rain.” Yet no one shouted or turned against John for supporting a controversial artist similar to Eminem, so what is the difference?

In reality the true controversy that laid in the last Grammy event was not whether Eminem’s lyrics are homophobic or hurt people, it dealt with the right and fight for freedom of expression. Eminem, along with every other musician, journalist and American citizen has the inalienable right to express themselves and the right should not be silenced. The artist himself said that it is what his album is about.

“I think this record represented freedom of speech. Being able to say what you want to say. Artistic expression,” said Eminem in an interview by MTV News reporter Kurt Loder.

Eminem’s lyrics do offend many people, and depending on one’s opinion he may be a bad or good influence. Along with the right of freedom of expression people have the right to turn off the television, not listen nor read the articles. Individuals have a right to stand up for what they believe in. That is another reason why John himself should not be chastised for performing with Eminem from groups that previously supported his efforts. He has said in many interviews how he admires Eminem and wanted to perform the song “Stan” with him.

No matter what Eminem says or does, he has as much right to say it as do the protesters who have the right to stand up and rally. For protesters to get their points across, it is persuasion not coercion that will get people informed. As Justice John Hallman said in the freedom of speech 1971 case Cohen vs. California “One man’s vulgarity is another’s lyric.”

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Unsigned editorials represent the opinion of the Campus Times Editorial Board.

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