Defending the Right to Speak and Give Freely Without Fear of Government Retaliation

The freedom of speech and, by extension, the freedom to give to causes of one’s choosing, are fundamental to American democracy. These freedoms must apply equally to all individuals and organizations, regardless of political viewpoint.

The Department of Justice’s reported investigation of the Open Society Foundations—which has supported pro-democracy and human rights work globally for decades—would set a dangerous precedent. When government investigations target organizations based on their missions rather than evidence of legal violations, it undermines independence of people and organizations, stifles free speech, and erodes this core foundation of our democracy.

This affects all of us. Charitable organizations must remain free to pursue their missions without fear of government scrutiny driven by the views of those who are in power. These organizations serve the public good by helping to meet people’s basic needs, improving community conditions, and protecting democratic practices.

We call on Americans of all points of view to defend the right of every citizen and organization to speak freely and to give to causes they believe in without fear of government retaliation.