Dear Friends of FAIR,
It might feel difficult to celebrate the founding of our country at a time when we find ourselves so divided and polarized. The upcoming Presidential election is devolving into chaos, the Supreme Court has handed down many controversial rulings, and the widening partisan divide has left many of us feeling trepidatious or even heavy-hearted as we think about having celebratory barbecues and family gatherings.
But today is about more than that. It’s about celebrating the unique rights and opportunities that are afforded to us as Americans. Indeed, our country’s founding principles give us the fundamental right to disagree with one another and our government. America was specifically designed to allow for the division and polarization that we’re now experiencing. And through the struggles we’re currently navigating, we have an opportunity to find the best path forward—a path that honors our shared values and our common humanity. Today is a day to focus on what we have in common rather than what separates us.
America's history is marked by moments of great challenge and great triumph. Each era of division has ultimately led to renewed unity and progress. As we celebrate the 4th of July, we have an opportunity to reflect on our journey as a nation, to acknowledge our struggles, and to honor our shared successes. To not take the bait. To engage with people we disagree with in grace and humility, and with a shared goal of uniting our nation in a time when it’s most needed.
At FAIR, we believe in the power of dialogue and understanding. We believe that through open conversations and shared experiences, we can bridge the divides that seem insurmountable. Our mission is to foster an environment where every individual is valued and heard, regardless of their background or beliefs.
As we gather with our loved ones this 4th of July, let's take a moment to appreciate the freedoms we enjoy and the diverse tapestry that makes up our nation. Let us commit to listening more, understanding better, and reaching across the divides that separate us.
In the spirit of unity and celebration, we encourage you to engage in acts of kindness, to share your stories and listen to others, and to find common ground with those around you. Together, we can build a future where every American can stand shoulder to shoulder as we look toward a brighter future.
Happy Independence Day from all of us at FAIR. May this day be filled with joy, reflection, and a renewed sense of hope for what lies ahead.
Warmly,
The Team at FAIR
AFTER CASS: The State of Gender Reform in the US, the UK, Australia and Beyond
Join us tomorrow, Friday July 5th from 4-5:30pm ET for a virtual event with whistleblowers, clinicians, and journalists. We will discuss how the Cass Review has reverberated in Europe and Australia and the challenges America faces in responding to its recommendations. Moderated by FAIR Advisor and author Lisa Selin Davis.
The First Amendment, Social Media, and Informed Consent: Can Government Silence Doctors?
Join FAIR’s Executive Director, Monica Harris, as she hosts Dr. Jay Bhattacharya and Nadine Strossen to discuss "Murthy v. Missouri" and other recent First Amendment Supreme Court cases, what they mean for future government censorship of "misinformation," and the implications for patient informed consent when dissenting perspectives and opinions from healthcare professionals do not align with government messaging.
We are honored to be joined by First Amendment expert and past national president of the ACLU, Nadine Strossen, who will provide an overview of the Supreme Court's recent decisions and her take on how they might impact our government's ability to censor Americans going forward. We will also hear from one of the plaintiffs in Murthy, physician Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, who is a professor of medicine at Stanford University. In his lawsuit, Dr. Bhattacharya alleged that the Biden administration illegally colluded "with social media companies to suppress disfavored speakers, viewpoints, and content."
FreedomFest Las Vegas
FAIR is headed to FreedomFest Las Vegas next week! FreedomFest is the annual festival where free minds meet to celebrate freedom in an open-minded environment. It is independent, non-partisan, and not officially affiliated with any organization or think tank. Executive Director Monica Harris will be participating in two discussions:
The Heterodox Challenge, Bridging the Divide in a Polarized World
Finding Common Ground in Polarizing Times with Ben Kawaller, Illana Redstone, and Chloé Valdary
Join us!
FAIR News Podcast
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FAIR Educators Alliance & Other Networks
Connect with other pro-human educators through the FAIR Educators Alliance. We bring together educators from all levels to share experiences and work on developing resources that can support teachers, community members, and FAIR chapters.
Teachers, administrators, librarians, and educators of all kinds are welcome. For more information and to join any of these networks, please email educators@fairforall.org.
Join the FAIR Community
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Become a FAIR volunteer, or join a FAIR chapter.
Sign-up for a Welcome to FAIR Zoom information session to learn more about our mission.
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Well said. Yes, we must find "a path that honors our shared values and our common humanity. Today is a day to focus on what we have in common rather than what separates us."
Yes! Beautifully said. We all have so much more in common than apart. I blame media and social media.