"The questing before [you] is one of awful moment to this country . . . in proportion to the magnitude of the subject [there must] be the freedom of the debate. It is only in this way that [you] can hope to arrive at truth, and fulfill the great responsibility which we hold to God and our country. Should [you] keep back [your] opinions at such a time, through fear of giving offense, [you] should consider [your]self as guilty of treason towards my country, and of an act of disloyalty toward the Majesty of Heaven, which [is] above all earthly kings . . . Are [you] disposed to be of the number of those who, having eyes, see not, and, having ears, hear not, the things which so nearly concern their temporal salvation? . . . whatever anguish of spirit it may cost, [you must be] willing to know the whole truth; to know the worst, and to provide for it."
You heard from one of the Founders.. if anyone denies free speech -- even "through fear of giving offense" -- they are committing treason.
Or in the case of the Islamists here in the U.S.of A. who demand that we must not criticize Islam -- they are committing treason and they should be arrested, tried, convicted, and interned for the duration. Period.
And the press along with them.