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HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION 5
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By: Delegates Martinez, Acevero, Alston, and Young
Introduced and read first time: February 7, 2024
Assigned to: Rules and Executive Nominations
HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION
A House Joint Resolution concerning 1
Commitment to Free Speech, Academic Freedom, and Open Public Discourse 2
FOR the purpose of reaffirming the Maryland General Assembly’s commitment to free 3
speech, academic freedom, and open public discourse; upholding the right of 4
individuals to express views on matters of foreign policy; and generally relating to 5
free speech, academic freedom, and open public discourse. 6
WHEREAS, The First Amendment to the U .S. Constitution guarantees the 7
fundamental right to free speech, which is essential to a democratic society and the pursuit 8
of truth; and 9
WHEREAS, Open and robust public discourse is vital for a functioning democracy, 10
allowing citizens to engage in the free exchange of ideas and opinions without fear of 11
censorship or retribution; and 12
WHEREAS, Criticism of foreign governments is a protected form of political speech, 13
contributing to informed public debate on matters of national and international 14
importance; and 15
WHEREAS, It is essential to safeguard the right of individuals, organizations, and 16
institutions to express dissenting views and opinions, even when such views pertain to the 17
policies and actions of a foreign government; and 18
WHEREAS, Protecting free speech is not only a constitutional imperative but also 19
an integral component of preserving academic freedom, promoting civic engagement, and 20
maintaining a vibrant and pluralistic society; and 21
WHEREAS, Attempts to stifle or suppress criticism of any foreign government may 22
have a chilling effect on free speech, academic inquiry, and public discourse; and 23
2 HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION 5
WHEREAS, The State recognizes the importance of fostering an environment that 1
respects diverse perspectives and encourages dialogue on issues related to foreign policy, 2
human rights, and international affairs; now, therefore, be it 3
RESOLVED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF MARYLAND, That the General 4
Assembly of Maryland hereby reaffirms its commitment to the principles of free speech, 5
academic freedom, and open public discourse; and be it further 6
RESOLVED, That the General Assembly of Maryland opposes any efforts to infringe 7
on the constitutionally protected right to criticize foreign governments, including the State 8
of Israel; and be it further 9
RESOLVED, That the General Assembly of Maryland encourages educational 10
institutions, governmental bodies, and other entities within the State to uphold and protect 11
the right of individuals to express dissenting views on matters of foreign policy without fear 12
of censorship or retribution; and be it further 13
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be forwarded by the Department of 14
Legislative Services to the Honorable Wes Moore, Governor of Maryland; the Honorable 15
William C. Ferguson, IV, President of the Senate of Maryland; and the Honorable Adrienne 16
A. Jones, Speaker of the House of Delegates. 17