October 2 – Jane Fonda, along with other figures from Hollywood, has revived a commission that aims to address what they see as threats to free speech posed by the Trump administration.
The First Amendment Committee, initially established in 1947 by prominent names like Kelly, Humphrey Bogart, and Lauren Bacall, emerged in response to perceived dangers from leftist figures in the mid-20th century.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the committee expressed its decision to re-launch in light of similar instances of political repression attributed to the current administration.
“The federal government is once more orchestrating an effort to suppress critics within the government, media, legal system, academic circles, and entertainment,” noted a group of over 500 professionals in the entertainment industry.
“We refuse to be silent. Upholding free speech and expression are fundamental rights for all Americans, regardless of whether their beliefs lean liberal or conservative.”
President Trump has faced ongoing allegations of misusing government agencies to stifle dissent, affecting both federal processes and broader societal contexts.
Critics highlight Trump’s executive orders and investigations aimed at his political rivals. Measures involving immigration enforcement, such as deportations and visa cancellations, were recently deployed to limit supporting voices for foreign students advocating for Palestine. Furthermore, an executive order has restricted the rights of transgender individuals, and another mandates that universities must abandon certain inclusive policies or face penalties.
Fonda stated, “Hanoi Jane can voice any unpopular opinions she holds. As someone with firsthand experience of censorship, I firmly believe that President Trump is actually a supporter of free speech, and the accusations against him by Democrats are misguided.”
“[Trump] focuses on left-wing groups that have instigated violent protests, coordinated attacks on law enforcement, and incited violence nationwide.”
Trump, who campaigned with a promise of taking action against political adversaries—especially following the tragic deaths of conservative figures like Charlie Kirk—may perceive the potential to target peaceful protests, advocating for a more stringent response to what he describes as leftist political violence.
By the committee’s launch on Wednesday, Fonda recounted receiving “hundreds of responses” from individuals in the entertainment field.
“This indicates to me that our industry is prepared to organize, combat authoritarianism, and defend fundamental rights,” Fonda remarked in a video shared on Instagram.
“We are artists. Creativity is central to our mission. The right to express ourselves is crucial. Many of our ancestors battled in wars to ensure this freedom.”
The White House reacted to the committee’s formation, noting that Fonda has the liberty to express her discontent.
“As someone who genuinely understands censorship, her claims are incorrect; President Trump is a staunch advocate for free speech despite unjust Democratic allegations.”
“He directs his attention towards violent riots, systematic assaults on law enforcement, illegal doxing schemes, and organizations on the left responsible for instigating violence across the country.”
