American Studies Blog 7

Emma Watson UN Speech

A YouTube video on an aspect of American Liberty

This video presents the aspect of freedom of speech within America. Emma Watson is not only an actress and model but also a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador. Her speech entailed her new initiative ‘HeForShe’, all about gender equality.

The freedom of speech, the first Amendment on the Bill of Rights, is displayed in this dialogue. This aspect of liberty is denied to many across the world and therefore I feel it is an important discussion point. To me, this is one thing America has done right. However, this ‘freedom’ comes to a price. With opinions, come disagreements, as everyone is entitled to their own thoughts and are consequently allowed to express their view. Emma Watson states “feminism by definition is the belief that men and women should have equal rights and opportunities. It is the theory of political, economic and social equality of the sexes.” This is a strong statement which would be disagreed by many for a variety of reasons, whether persona belief, religion or political and would have caused outrage by many.

Gender equality is an on-going issue and to me, one that needs to be firmly addressed. When you think of gender equality you think of women not receiving equal pay, but this equality needs to be reversed in other ways. A way that Emma Watson states “men don’t have the benefits of equality, either.” And she continues; “Both men and women should feel free to be sensitive. Both men and women should feel free to be strong.”

This video is only one of billions of presenting American Liberty. Singers are another good example of freedom of speech as they’re allowed to sing about what they want. Directors can make films about what they want and to me this aspect of freedom of speech within American Liberty is key. There are some place which would not have allowed Emma Watson to express her views, which are so important to address in todays society.