Jane Fonda has revitalized the Committee for the First Amendment, a coalition advocating for free speech that started in 1947. This group was initially formed by Hollywood stars to oppose the House Un-American Activities Committee and the Hollywood blacklist.
This week, Fonda, along with over 800 figures from the entertainment industry—such as Spike Lee, Billie Eilish, and Pedro Pascal—announced the committee’s rebirth. They expressed alarm over government efforts to silence critics across various sectors, including media and academia.
In a recent video, Fonda, now 87, emphasized the committee’s mission is not just to create an organization, but to cultivate a movement focusing on “creative, nonviolent noncooperation.” She highlighted actions like boycotting Disney+ after ABC suspended Jimmy Kimmel as an example of impactful protest.
The original committee boasted members like Henry Fonda, Lucille Ball, and Judy Garland, who fought against anti-Communist hearings targeting Hollywood in the late ’40s.
While Fonda’s statement didn’t name President Trump directly, the White House responded by asserting Trump is a strong proponent of free speech. Their spokesperson claimed accusations of censorship against him are unfounded.
A restored broadcast of the 1947 program “Hollywood Fights Back!” was also shared, featuring Garland’s poignant words about being labeled bad Americans.
This revival comes at a time when public discourse is increasingly polarized. A recent survey indicated that nearly 50% of Americans feel free speech is under threat. Fonda and her colleagues hope to address these concerns head-on, reminding us that the fight for free expression is ongoing.
For further details on this resurgence, check out the Committee for the First Amendment’s official site here.
