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A Political Activist
I run a political Web site that espouses conservative and libertarian viewpoints. Some of the views expressed
on my Web site are admittedly controversial and no doubt raise the eyebrows and blood pressure of those who are
not like-minded. I strongly believe that we have the fundamental right, as United States citizens, to express
our views, whatever they may be. To that end, the Internet has been a wonderful thing; it allows views to be
heard in a medium widely available to everyone, outside of traditional mainstream media.
Unfortunately, the Internet has a dangerous side. The Whois directory,
available to anyone, anywhere, at
anytime, would readily allow someone who does not appreciate the viewpoints expressed on my Web site, to locate
me. In this day and age of heightened political awareness, and the fervor people attach to their particular
views, having my home address and phone number readily accessible, simply is not prudent.
With private registrations, my Web site and the views it expresses are free for the world to read; but my
personal identifying information is not so readily available. If I can keep my phone number and address
unlisted in the White Pages and Directory Assistance, which I have done for years, this option should be
equally available on the Internet. I cannot tell you how many threatening emails I have received along the
lines of this one: "I only wish there was a way a way to flush out moronic Web sites like yours, and keep them
off the Internet."
Consequently, it is imperative that my private address be kept what it is - private. If my mainstream,
conservative Web site is not considered free speech entitled to protection from harassment, then I don't know
what free speech is anymore. Disallowing private registrations would detrimentally impact my freedom of speech
and trample the most fundamental of all American freedoms.
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