"The freedom of thought and expression is one of the most sacred rights in this country"

The statement by Eliot Engel emphasizes the fundamental value placed on the ability of individuals to think and speak freely within a society. He refers to the freedom of thought and expression as among the most sacred rights in the country, suggesting that these liberties are essential, almost inviolable, and foundational to the nation's identity and values. The use of the word “sacred” elevates these freedoms to a level akin to moral or spiritual significance, indicating that the protection of these rights is not merely a legal or political preference but an ethical imperative. Such freedoms ensure that people can hold beliefs, voice dissent, and contribute to societal debate without fear of repression or punishment.

By highlighting these rights, Engel acknowledges their centrality to democratic governance and the maintenance of a healthy public sphere. Societies that safeguard freedom of thought encourage critical inquiry, innovation, and the flourishing of individual perspectives. When individuals are empowered to explore, question, and articulate ideas, a collective wisdom and resilience emerge, enabling communities to adapt and progress. Moreover, the presence of these freedoms acts as a bulwark against tyranny and authoritarianism, for suppressing thought and expression is often the first step in undermining other basic human rights.

The reverence for these liberties also points to a long-standing tradition in the country’s history, drawing on foundational documents and Supreme Court decisions that have defended speech and thought as necessary components of a free society. Engel’s statement may also serve as a reminder that such rights can never be taken for granted; they require vigilance and proactive defense amid challenges such as censorship, propaganda, or societal pressures to conform. In honoring the freedom of thought and expression as sacred, citizens affirm their commitment to diversity, open discourse, and the perpetual quest for truth, both individually and collectively.