Author: Soyini Hamit

Swedish Artist Talks About Life in Wake of Mohammed Cartoon

Swedish artist Lars Vilks found himself at the center of controversy in 2007 when his cartoon featuring the Prophet Mohammed’s head on a dog’s body was published. Today, he remains a controversial figure, a fact that influences the way he…

The First Amendment: A Reason to Give Thanks

This Thanksgiving, CBLDF takes a moment to give thanks for our biggest asset in the fight to protect free speech the United States: the First Amendment. Though we continually see challenges to free speech, the results are not as extreme…

Anti-Extremism Legislation in Russia Courts Censorship

Russia faces increased scrutiny as enforcement of its anti-extremism laws skirts the line of censorship. Just last week, a librarian in Siberia was convicted in criminal proceedings for fulfilling a patron’s request for a banned book. No information was given…

South African President Drops Defamation Suit Against Cartoonist

South African President Jacob Zuma announced last week that he was dropping his lawsuit against cartoonist Jonathan Shapiro, known by the pen-name Zapiro. Zuma brought the suit for defamation against Zapiro, along with Sunday Times publisher Avusa Media and editor…

Sedition Charges Dropped Against Aseem Trivedi

On October 12, the Maharashtra state government dropped the sedition charges against cartoonist Aseem Trivedi on advice from the advocate general. Though police were instructed to remove the charge from his case, Trivedi still faces additional charges under the Prevention…

Editorial Cartoonist Fired for Drawing Political Cartoons

South African cartoonist Jeremy Nell (aka Jerm) was fired from the publication The New Age. Their reason for terminating Jerm’s contract was that his cartoons made political statements. It’s surprising that Jerm would be fired for something that falls within his…

Alan Moore, America’s Most Challenged

Alan Moore is a legend of the comic book industry, recognized as one of its best writers. He has won numerous awards for his works, including for his run on Swamp Thing, Watchmen, Batman: The Killing Joke, and The League…

Indian Cartoonist Aseem Trivedi Released on Bail After Arrest on Sedition Charges

Cartoonist Aseem Trivedi was arrested on sedition charges stemming from his cartoons, which criticize and expose corruption in India’s government. His arrest sparked protests from supporters, leading the government to promise a review of the charges against Trivedi. Though bail was granted,…