Let Freedom Ring

Let Freedom Ring (or Vibrate)

New York City Schools have joined others in the country to ban cell phones. Reasons? They are a distraction. They are being used by gangs. They are being used for cheating. And they are being used to take inappropriate photographs. Here is that new mentality rearing its ugly head once again. For the good of all, we, your government, are going to curtail another of your freedoms. I cannot believe this. How far are we from a police state?

I totally agree that all cell phones, the teacher's included, should be turned off during class. They should be out of sight. The ringers should be turned off always and set to vibrate only. But during breaks and lunchtime the students should be free to check their messages and make calls. There should be rules and punishments for those who abuse the phones, but an all out ban is wrong.

As a parent, I made sure that my daughter had a cell phone at all times. This is one of the best security inventions ever devised. And it is one of the best ways for a parent to keep track of their children. My daughter was given rules and she followed them. The phone was invaluable in coordinating our lives and eliminating confusion about when and where we would meet, increasing her safety, and reducing my stress levels.

It is past the time for all of us to stand up and scream at the top of our lungs, "ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!" To be free you must have freedom! Freedom carries risks! Once again I quote Ben Franklin:

"Those who would give up Essential Liberty to purchase a little Temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety."

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