Jenna Martin attended a city council meeting on May 7 to express her frustration with how the city has handled pro-Palestinian activism on college campuses. Martin directed sharp criticism at Mayor Erin Mendenhall, questioning the city's actions, particularly the multiple arrests of local activist Michael Valentine, which Martin called “bullshit” because she believes they were based on false pretenses. A council member interrupted her as she spoke, citing "decorum" rules. When Martin continued, her microphone was cut off, and security escorted her out, even though she was not causing any type of disturbance.
The council's actions are deeply concerning as they reflect a broader problem with the city's public comment rules, which mandate "respectful" discourse and ban so-called "discriminatory" language. The council can prohibit conduct that actually disrupts a meeting. But these rules are both unconstitutionally vague and inherently viewpoint-discriminatory. They allow officials to selectively silence criticism, thereby chilling free speech and stifling public debate—actions that run counter to First Amendment protections.
This issue is not isolated to Salt Lake City but is part of a troubling trend across the country. In Teaneck, New Jersey, for example, members of the community faced similar censorship at board of education meetings. Despite having different views from Martin on the Israeli-Palestinian debate, these citizens encountered the same tactics when they voiced their critiques of government actions. They were interrupted, silenced, and even threatened with removal under vague decorum rules. These rules were selectively enforced to suppress criticism of school officials, highlighting a pattern of government bodies using "decorum" as a tool to stifle dissent. Such actions directly violate the First Amendment and threaten the democratic principles that protect every American's right to free speech, regardless of their political views.
This is a fight that affects all of us, which has prompted FIRE’s involvement. This issue also goes beyond any single meeting or policy—it’s about the right to speak out and be heard. We must stand together to protect these fundamental rights. Send an email to the Salt Lake City Council today, urging them to revise their public comment rules and uphold the First Amendment. Let’s ensure that all voices, especially those challenging power, are heard and respected.
