Legal

What was so groundbreaking about Mike Gravel’s presence and speech at FSC’s event?

Jeff

Phoenix AZ

Dear Jeff,

As I write this I am on a plane back to DC. FSC has been invited to participate in a First Amendment Conference hosted by the Scripps Foundation and put together by the Thomas Jefferson Center. I am arriving in DC a few days early so that I can meet with some of our nation’s elected officials—or at least their staff--before the conference begins.

Just a few short weeks ago I was in DC for my first lobbying trip representing the Free Speech Coalition and the adult entertainment industry. I began the trip by meeting with our coalition partners, the ACLU, the American Library Association, the Woodhull Foundation and others. That was an extremely positive experience. However, when I met with legislative staffers it became obvious that we have a great deal of work to do. Everyone was very helpful and pleasant and everyone made it abundantly clear that it would be political suicide for any politician to stand up for our industry.

Until we begin to stand up for ourselves and encourage our broad base of consumers to join us, finding a political figure to stand up publicly for our industry will be almost impossible. That is why it was groundbreaking to have Mike Gravel at our event. That is why it was so inspiring for him to not only show the courage to stand up for true freedom, but also to challenge us to do the same.

We witnessed courage by one politician who I believe holds true to his convictions and a love of our country. I am inspired by a truly great man. This week, I will walk among the monuments of great men that came before Senator Gravel, I will return to Los Angeles inspired to join Senator Gravel and my fellow adult entertainment professionals to continue the fight for freedom, justice and liberty.

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