House stages cheerleading session for Internet censorship bill

[katty]

more:
http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2011/11/16/house-stages-cheerleading-session-for-internet-censorship-bill/


SNIP:

The only detractor allowed to speak during Wednesday’s congressional hearing was Google — and instead of championing free speech, their lead counsel on copyright policy instead recommended the model of censorship that anti-secrecy website WikiLeaks is currently experiencing: a voluntary banking blockade, instead of one mandated by law. Privacy advocates, free speech advocates, technology advocates and even other Internet industry groups were left without a voice at the hearing.

“The key problem with SOPA is that it seeks to allow any copyright holder to sever any website’s relationship with online advertising networks or credit card processing services, simply by pointing the finger,” technology publication First Post explained.

The legislation is so broad it could be used to target online anonymity tools used by human rights activists, according to the EFF.

[lbrtbell]

1. This should be the #1 story on DU right now

Any threat to freedom online is a threat to freedom, period.

[Newest Reality]

2. While yet another attack on the freedom of the

Internet for the sake of corporate interests deserves a big face palm, this is critical and important.

If the vested interests that the politicians get this act passed, the death knell tolls on what freedom we have had in our collective connection. From there on, its down, down, down.

So, I'm wondering why this is not ringing LOUDLY here like an air-raid siren or a fire alarm? Don't people think it has a chance to pass?

[Laelth]

5. I suspect people are silent because they have no faith in Congress.

To many of us, it has become cleat that Congress will pass whatever laws it wants with or without the support of the American people. If so, it makes little sense to even discuss what Congress is doing because we have no voice in Congress.

Faith in the system is very low. Generally speaking, liberals have more faith in OWS and the 99% movement at this time.

-Laelth

[arcane1]

3. I'm sincerely hoping this dies in the Senate

Repubs can block and kill bills, so can we!!!

[katty]

4. yup-it needs to die-ASAP

[Norrin Radd]

6. kr