"The greatest threat to freedom is the absence of criticism." --Wole Soyinka
“I never considered a difference of opinion in politics, in religion, in philosophy, as cause for withdrawing from a friend.” -Thomas Jefferson
I have just finished reading two of my “summer reads”- John Adams by David McCullough, andThomas Jefferson: The Art of Power by Jon Meacham. Adams and Jefferson were distinguished lawyers and two of the five Declaration of Independence authors. (Note: four of the five Declaration of Independence authors were lawyers.)
As we celebrate the founding of our country in the midst of a heated national debate about civil discourse and the role of a free media in our society, it is worth noting that both Adams and Jefferson were regularly and fiercely criticized by the press during their political careers, including their historic Presidencies. Yet both understood the vital role that a free press plays in the enduring strength of our democracy.
President John Adams noted, “The liberty of the press is essential to the security of the state.” President Thomas Jefferson opined, “Were it left to me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers, or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter.”
At C|M|Law we are committed to fostering a respectful environment in which there can be vigorous debate about the issues that shape our future. We seek to be a place where we welcome and celebrate diverse viewpoints. We facilitate free expression and foster a culture where our students learn not only in the classroom but also through honest engagement and respectful discourse and dialogue.
In the spirt of Adams and Jefferson, we teach that even as we zealously advocate for our clients, lawyers must remain committed to civility. We train leaders to recognize that civility is not about moderating or diluting your views to please others; it is about respecting others’ differing views and their right to express them.
In honor of our historic 120th anniversary and our proud history of open and civil discourse, please invest in our 120 Scholarship Campaign. Please consider a contribution or pledge today ranging from $120 to $12,000 to $120,000. Please give here: Believe in C|M|LAW. Give Now. or send me an email with your pledge at: lee.fishernull@csuohio.nulledu. Your groundbreaking contribution will be the foundation of our campaign. It would mean a lot to us.
Have a great July 4th!
My best,
Lee
For copies of past messages, please go to this link: Monday Morning Messages.