[muawiyah]

In America “silence” has NEVER denoted approval. For that standard you have to go to the REST OF THE WORLD where, among other things, it is commonly the case that you must prove your innocence if charged with a crime.

[shibumi]

"In America “silence” has NEVER denoted approval."

Not trying to be contentious, FRiend, but that is exactly what the legal maxim is.

Qui Tacet Consentire Videtur. "Silence Gives Consent" is a principle of American Jurisprudence handed down from English Common Law. It can be traced as far back as the early Greek City/States. The Athenians expressed it as “Auto de to sigan homologountos esti sou” and it was quoted in the plays of Euripides.

Bottom line: If you don't speak up, you get what's comin' to you.

(Ever hear the end of a civil wedding ceremony? "Speak now, or forever hold your peace.")