Freedom of Speech (Podcast #29)
Opening Comments: Welcome back all, this episode is all about freedom of speech, which happens to be a key provision within the 1st Amendment of the US Constitution. This fundamental and basic right (freedom of speech) does not exist today for so many individuals with disabilities. However, that could change as NYstate could be the very first state within our country to change that, that is should the NYstate senators and Governor sign off on what the NYstate Assembly has already voted on and unanimously passed back in June of 2025. So for the next 9 minutes take a listen to what freedom of speech means to non speaking individuals: (1:00)
A quick fact before we get into our writings, it’s worth repeating ---there are over 31M non speaking individuals worldwide within a total population of over 70M. Onto our writings:
First up is 19 year old Aulton Grubbs from Tucson AZ, and working with his mom as his CP he taps out on the travel size letterboard the following:
Freedom of speech is essential to a strong democracy. This right is being denied to so many brilliant minds who don't speak in the usual way. These nuanced voices can be extremely bold and are holding onto fruitful new ideas. These voices hold as much value as everyone’s. Now, there is an important statute being considered in New York that would allow nonspeaking individuals to communicate using other means than vocalization. This should be a non issue. It is a basic right. My voice cannot kindle a flame without my letter board. This country deserves and needs a firestorm. Non speaking voices are kind, empathetic, patient, responsible, thoughtful and loving. But we are also pragmatic, strategic and eloquent. I want our strong voices to be treated as intelligent and worth the grueling fight. I desire so solemnly that this vote favors inclusivity for everyone. I gander a win may ripple into other states. Non speakers will be heard and it will be loud! (3:27)
Comment: thanks Aulton welcome back and how eloquently stated. Thanks again.
Next up is my son Richie working with his communication partner and tapping one letter at a time on the letter board, which took about 20 minutes. He writes the following:
Freedom of speech begins with systems getting set up, giving everyone a chance to communicate. All people deserve to be heard. America is home of the free. Americans all have a mighty power in this country. A mighty power to let our leaders know how we want this country to run. I speak with a letter board and have the same power as others with the ability to speak. My words are no less important. History is slow to learn. I hope now that it will.
Comment: Thanks Richie and I share your hope as well. (4:46)
Next and back once again is 29 year old Gianna and working with her CP and tapping one letter at a time on the letterboard she writes:
Freedom of speech. Communication for hearing how people feel always gives hope to summon without a voice. Losing your voice means you lose hope that you can tell what you need to make your life better. Back when I could not communicate, I found myself angry and scared, never knowing if I would be able to find the voice to talk to my family. Now I'm able to tell them I love them. Listen when I say everyone deserves a voice. A letter board is only a different way of speaking. Freedom of speech is for everyone.
Comment: thanks G and I’m sure the majority of people agree with you that everyone deserves a voice.
Next up is my man Nick Barry and working with his CP Miranda from REV in Maryland he taps out the following:
Freedom of speech is a tricky topic for me. I am a passionate, intelligent young adult who types to communicate. My speech is unreliable. My thoughts and ideas should matter just as much as a speaking person. Hundreds of thousands of text messages and emails are sent every day. I bet you, as a listener, communicate that way. So I ask you to rethink your judgments about me. Me typing my thoughts is right and just. Freedom to communicate is a basic right. I feel free when I am heard. (7:06):
Comment: thanks Nick and welcome back to the podcast and I love your passion, great message. Thanks for sharing.
Our last writing comes from 16 year old Miller Laffoon from Arkansas and working with mom as his CP he taps out on the letterboard the following:
I am a human. And have the right to communicate. I can't communicate in the same way as most people, but so what? I communicate by spelling. I am a smart and loving guy, and have a lot to share. I am a writer. I write stories and poetry. I love to ask thought provoking questions and hear all thoughts. I'm a small person in a big world, but small people have done big things. I’m going to be a songwriter and I’m going to be an author of a series that I’m in the process of writing now. I'm a friend that shares interesting and meaningful conversations with other spellers, and I love it. I love sharing my creative thoughts, but I also can share if my feelings have been hurt or if I am in pain. I had an eye exam and I used my letterboard. I don't need glasses. I recently shared that I felt sad that my grandpa is now needing to be on oxygen to breathe. My best friend said to think of his oxygen as a letterboard. I can't breathe without communication. I'm trapped and I'm breathless. I love the comparison. A simple comparison, but how profound. I seem to believe that a world where anyone is denied communication is a world that isn't a loving place. I see love all over and I know that this bill will pass in every state, in every country, and one day all will have access to a meaningful method of communication. I share this to open minds, to change hearts, and to beg all to make this a movement that can't be stopped. When individuals come together, small becomes big. A small flame can create an explosion. My heart burns for this movement. I am a human and I have the right to communicate.
Written by. Miller La Foon August 27th, 2025. (10:13)
Comment: thanks Miller and welcome back and thanks for taking a big breath to share your thoughts and optimism on the letterboard. I too believe the bill will pass and have a positive impact on so many worldwide. Thanks so much!!!
Closing comment: In closing, the ask is that each and everyone of you please support this community and their basic human right to speak. To do that all you need to do is reach out to your local representative and send a letter or email with your full contact information, which would include your home address and ask them to support the Communication Bill of Rights for Individuals with Disabilities (bill A7363). If you live in any other state please educate your local representives and reference this bill. As I’ve stated many times this world becomes a far better place when we begin to truly listen to these individuals. That’s it, till next time. (11:47)
Authors: Aulton Grubbs, Richie, Gianna, Nick Barry and Miller La Foon
Contact: Aulton Aulton.grubbs@gmail.com, @aulton.grubbs on facebook and Instagram.
Contact all others at: mywordsrmyvoice@gmail.com or www.mywordsaremyvoice.com
Podcast produced @ Caffeine Academy, West Babylon NY ( INFO@CAFFEINEACADEMY.COM)
Background music: America the Beautiful by Jason Swanson