Elton John attacks 'censorship' in US

[Moloch]

Elton John has said stars are scared to speak out against war in Iraq because of "bullying tactics" used by the US government to hinder free speech.

"There's an atmosphere of fear in America right now that is deadly. Everyone is too career-conscious," he told New York magazine, Interview.

...

"There was a moment about a year ago when you couldn't say a word about anything in this country for fear of your career being shot down by people saying you are un-American," he told the magazine.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/3902833.stm

[Cha]

1. Thank you, Elton! Boy!...did that need to be said!

"The singer likened the current "fear factor" to McCarthyism in the 1950s.

On the one hand, you have someone like Toby Keith, who has come out and been very supportive of the Bush administration and the war in Iraq - which is OK because America is a democracy and Toby Keith is entitled to say what he thinks and feels.

"But, on the other hand, the Dixie Chicks got shot down in flames last year for criticising the president. They were treated like they were being un-American, when in fact they have every right to say whatever they want about him because he's freely elected, and therefore accountable."

Elton has it right!

[VolcanoJen]

2. Dupe... locking

Please continue discussion within the original LBN thread on this topic, which can be found here:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=102x691732

damkira, it would be helpful if you could add your BBC link to the original thread, for consolidation.

Thanks!
VolcanoJen
DU Moderator