Jane Fonda Relaunches McCarthy-Era Committee To Protect Free Speech

In the 1940s, in response to McCarthyism in the United States, Hollywood icon Henry Fonda established the Committee for the First Amendment to defend free speech at a time of fear and repression. Now, nearly 80 years later, his daughter and fellow star Jane Fonda is following in his footsteps by reviving the group with the support of some of the industry’s brightest stars. The committee’s relaunch has already seen over 550 celebrities publicly backing the effort, with the biggest names including the omnipresent Star Wars and Marvel star Pedro Pascal, Oscar winner Viola Davis, legendary director Spike Lee, and Grammy winner Billie Eilish. Fonda’s decision comes amid fears of increasing free speech violations in the country, particularly after the brief preempting of Jimmy Kimmel Live! in September.

Fonda emphasized the historical impact of industry forces, citizens, and other important figures uniting their voices against political powers when attacks on speech begin to take hold. “The McCarthy Era ended when Americans from across the political spectrum finally came together and stood up for the principles in the Constitution against the forces of repression,” she said. “Those forces have returned. And it is our turn to stand together in defense of our constitutional rights.” Her statement further pushed the importance of expression, regardless of political affiliation and format, as one of America’s founding principles.

“We refuse to stand by and let that happen. Free speech and free expression are the inalienable rights of every American of all backgrounds and political beliefs — no matter how liberal or conservative you may be. The ability to criticize, question, protest, and even mock those in power is foundational to what America has always aspired to be.”