Coffee Talk #1 - Freedom of Speech in Comedy

In 2-3 paragraphs, using your own thoughts, opinions, experiences, and examples address the following coffee talk discussion:

The First Amendment States: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."

In September of 2019, comedian Shane Gillis was hired and promply fired by Saturday Night Live after his racist and homophobic comments from a year-old podcast came to light. Several comedians came to his defense, claiming that Gillis was a victim and that his firing exemplified an erosion of free speech in America. But does it?

It can be argued that being fired from TV shows for speech is not a First Amendment issue. The First Amendment only protects people in the United States from government censorship. Private companies are not bound by its restrictions. What is your take? Who should determine what is offensive? What should be banned? What limits, if any, should we put in place for comedy, art, music, etc?

This should come from "you." This is not a research paper, but similar to a journal submission. Think of it this assignment as a casual conversation with a friend over a cup of coffee.

For reference - Read the Shane Gillis News Story:

https://www.npr.org/2019/09/16/761367838/comedian-shane-gillis-fired-from-saturday-night-live-for-racist-remarks