The Paris example

Published by the Visayan Daily Star Publications, Inc.

NINFA R. LEONARDIA Editor-in-Chief & President

CARLA P. GOMEZ Editor CHERYL CRUZ Desk Editor NIDA A. BUENAFE Sports Editor RENE GENOVE Bureau Chief, Dumaguete MAJA P. DELY Advertising Coordinator

CARLOS ANTONIO L. LEONARDIA Administrative Officer

It was a beautiful demonstration of solidarity that world leaders held for France in its capital, Paris, yesterday. For what is very likely the first “protest action” ever staged in the world by such a group, the heads of state of several countries went to France, condoled with its leaders, and personally joined the march to show the country, and the rest of the freedom-loving world, that they will not tolerate such bigotry, such disrespect for the views of others, and such hatred for the freedom that other countries and governments allow their citizens.
It was on Wednesday last week when gunmen attacked the office of the French magazine called “Charlie Hebdo”, or “Charlie Weekly”, and mowed down 12 of its staff members before fleeing, and leading the police on a merry chase, that involved a hostage-taking activity, and the death of the main perpetrators, and several others.

When they rushed to Paris, to express their unity, not only with France, but very likely with all other countries so threatened by terrorism, the world leaders showed their fearlessness and seriousness in being one with them. They all know that what had happened in Paris could have happened, or may happen in their own countries, unless it is made clear to the terror groups that the rest of the world will not tolerate such actions, and will come together against it.

This, they clearly demonstrated when they marched down the street from the area where the Charlie Hebdo office is located, unmindful of the fact that they, too, could be the targets of such terroristic acts.

What a heartwarming response, and what an inspiring example they have shown to all other countries that may be also the targets of such inhuman activities.

That is why, the Paris example is another assurance, that as long as the Press can muster such support and solidarity from the world’s freedom loving community, the people, and especially their freedom of expression will always be defended by those who want the world to always remain free.*