header image

[Sign Up Now] to Receive Our FREE Daily SCVTV-SCVNews Digest by E-Mail

Inside
Weather


 
Calendar
Today in
S.C.V. History
December 19
1970 - Snow day in Santa Clarita Valley [photos]
Saugus train station


Now and Then in the SCV | Commentary by Darryl Manzer
| Wednesday, Jul 23, 2014

darrylmanzer_blacktieA week or so ago I wrote that I thought the current occupant of the White House should be impeached. I received many comments about that, but a couple of them really disturbed me. The comments said what I wrote was “hate speech.”

I thought what I wrote was “free speech.” You see, I can’t stand the guy who holds the office that gets him free room and board in that big white house at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C.

I made a list of the things I didn’t like about his policies and current actions, making no statement that was personal. I didn’t attack his personality, race, creed, whatever. I just stated I thought he was breaking the law and ought to be impeached.

So it is OK if I say good things that someone likes about President Obama, but if I say I don’t like the job he is or isn’t doing, it is “hate speech?” Balderdash.

The same thing happens at the local level. Take the last election for City Council in Santa Clarita and most especially the little issue about billboards.

When it came to those two subjects, I kept reading in Letters to the Editor and various Facebook pages that some people thought others were using “hate speech.” Really? I don’t think so.

The current PC (politically correct) era where we all must “play nice” isn’t in the best interests of our city, county, state or country. Our rich and wonderful English language is a tool we can all use to better advantage in all of our affairs. If we allow it to be curbed in just about any way to “not offend” some small part of society, we will end up only talking about how pleasant the weather has or hasn’t been and maybe how we wish … whatever.

I might not agree with you, or you with me, but whilst you’re on your soapbox advocating a view I can’t stand, I ask that you grant me the civility of letting me stand on my soapbox and expound upon my views. We can both yell at the top of our lungs. We can shake our fists. We can call each other names. None of that would ordinarily be called “hate speech.”

I can even write things like this: “Who called the President an SOB?” Then the answer comes: “Who called that SOB a President?” Just my opinion versus your opinion, so deal with it. It is called the First Amendment.

I’d not seen this valley so “riled up” in years, when it came to the little issue of billboards. Would that many years before, they’d brought up the subject to remove them. But along came the council election, and it seemed like a perfect way to slam the incumbents on the City Council who were running for reelection. What the critics said about those council members wasn’t nice. It wasn’t fair, either. One thing for sure: It wasn’t “hate speech.”

There is “hate speech,” for sure. Most anything that comes from the KKK is classified as such. Neo-Nazi folks, too. Our various political parties and groups don’t use hate speech. They just disagree at length over just about any topic known in the political arena.

Do I open that can of worms about “race?” Do I need to do that? I have to say I’m tired of being called a racist because I disagree with Mr. Obama or the illustrious attorney general, Mr. Holder. In fact, I take great umbrage at them and others calling me that, because I don’t like what they are doing and I vote most often as a … non-committed voter.

I find it childish and immature that when someone states a view contrary to what those two gentlemen think, you become either a “racist” or a “hater.” I was taught in various debate classes that name-calling does nothing to change the minds of those you want to adopt the views you have. In fact, when many of us out here in the real world of the Santa Clarita Valley and even the Antelope Valley hear that, we get angry. Open up an honest debate and do not turn to name calling.

I do find it a bit hypocritical when the folks call me names like that. Do you get that same feeling or thought?

I’m tired of it. Remember that free speech is a two-way street. You might not like what I say or write, but isn’t it wonderful that we live in a land where we can say or write just about anything?

 

Darryl Manzer grew up in the Pico Canyon oil town of Mentryville in the 1960s and attended Hart High School. After a career in the U.S. Navy he returned to live in the Santa Clarita Valley. He can be reached at dmanzer@scvhistory.com and his commentaries are archived at DManzer.com. Watch his walking tour of Mentryville [here].

Comment On This Story
COMMENT POLICY: We welcome comments from individuals and businesses. All comments are moderated. Comments are subject to rejection if they are vulgar, combative, or in poor taste.
REAL NAMES ONLY: All posters must use their real individual or business name. This applies equally to Twitter account holders who use a nickname.

33 Comments

  1. bill says:

    It’s very simple. A Racist is someone who doe not agree with or give money to leftist causes.

    For lack of intelligent argument, throw out the race card

  2. Linda says:

    Well stated. I like to read other’s opinions, but not name calling.

  3. Are you and Joe best buds?

  4. Julie obviously dislikes you both. We all think you’re wonderful. Keep writing!

  5. You might not like that I call you a racist or a hater, but isn’t it wonderful that we live in a land where we can say or write just about anything.

  6. Tommy Rini says:

    Even if its gibberish

  7. Mike Duryea says:

    Using the words “hate speech” is just a cheap tactic used by Liberals to shame you into agreeing with them, how they think, or with the President. Never mind the fact that you disagree with his policies, you don’t disagree with him as a man or his skin color. People are funny.

  8. Bob Buechner says:

    What you or i believe to be the truth in our words, no matter what or who it’s about can always be challenged by someone with a different view , without free speech we may as well turn in all our weapons and let big brother take control…

  9. Dorene Tapp says:

    I agree with everything you wrote in this piece. Keep up the good work.

  10. Dorene Tapp says:

    I agree with everything you wrote in this piece. Keep up the good work.

  11. Dorene Tapp says:

    I agree with everything you wrote in this piece. Keep up the good work.

  12. Sophie Sidky says:

    This is probably the only article I can agree with him about.

  13. Sophie Sidky says:

    This is probably the only article I can agree with him about.

  14. Sophie Sidky says:

    This is probably the only article I can agree with him about.

  15. Obama is a disappointment to every age,every race, every sex, every yet to be born American. Let’s see, did I leave anyone out? Don’t want to appear prejudice! You spoke the truth and and it embarrasses those who voted for a color not experience.oh well.

  16. Obama is a disappointment to every age,every race, every sex, every yet to be born American. Let’s see, did I leave anyone out? Don’t want to appear prejudice! You spoke the truth and and it embarrasses those who voted for a color not experience.oh well.

  17. Obama is a disappointment to every age,every race, every sex, every yet to be born American. Let’s see, did I leave anyone out? Don’t want to appear prejudice! You spoke the truth and and it embarrasses those who voted for a color not experience.oh well.

  18. Mike Dill says:

    Not to everyone Shirley….

  19. Alex Rich says:

    It’s certainly not hate speech, but the original article was nonetheless idiotic

  20. Steve Marmel says:

    You are terrible. But, nice suit.

  21. Listen NO ONE CARES about your personal views or opinions on the president of the United States!! This is Santa Clarita Valley TV page! This isn’t Darryl Manzer personal republican blog! I don’t care if you were disturbed or your feelings were hurt. So were hundreds of people that read your annoying rant!!! Every single time I come on this site I am forced to look at you in a suit and tie with this wanna be james bond face. This is suppose to be about the happenings in SANTA CLARITA!!! KEEP IT AS SUCH!!

  22. msc545 says:

    It really is supposed to be about SCV, not your right wing political views. Can you manage to stick to that and write things of interest about SCV ?

  23. Sean says:

    Don’t worry Darryl, its people like Eric Holder who are both being racist and a fascist when they used the race card to shut down debate and slander individuals who provide performance feedback on his inept, incompetent and corrupt president.

    Obama is not the only one who should be impeached. Most of his administration should and many of them also belong in prison for their action s while in office.

    But then merit, accountability and human rights were never ever what the left was really about. Like the race card they just use these words as weapons against those whom they hate.

  24. Tim says:

    If I disagree with the brutality of the Chinese government is that hate speech? Am I displaying hatred towards all Chinese people because I believe the leaders of their country (who are also Chinese) are despicable, brutal tyrants?

  25. SCV Janie says:

    All of you slamming Mr. Manzer’s appearance sound very stupd.

  26. SCV Janie says:

    hahahaha stupid hahaha

  27. Stefano Filippelli says:

    When people call you racists it’s because they lack the ability to come up with a well thought out logical rebuttle so they resort to name calling. We see it on our playgrounds all the time. The minute a debate turns to name calling I know I’ve won the debate.

  28. When people call you racists it’s because they lack the ability to come up with a well thought out logical rebuttle so they resort to name calling. We see it on our playgrounds all the time. The minute a debate turns to name calling I know I’ve won the debate.

  29. Joe says:

    Darryl – HOME RUN! the comments have proved your point. Those who dont like what you have to say are telling you to shut up and go away, even make fun of what you are wearing. How mature of them. Its that kind of thought process and speech that will never allow us to work out our differences. Keep up the good work. Keep exercising your fee speech rights. Those of you who don’t like it and want to shut him down can always move to Russia I understand there they don’t allow any negative speech towards the government You’ll be in your own little communist heaven.

Leave a Comment


Opinion Section Policy
All opinions and ideas are welcome. Factually inaccurate, libelous, defamatory, profane or hateful statements are not. Your words must be your own. All commentary is subject to editing for legibility. There is no length limit, but the shorter, the better the odds of people reading it. "Local" SCV-related topics are preferred. Send commentary to: LETTERS (at) SCVNEWS.COM. Author's full name, community name, phone number and e-mail address are required. Phone numbers and e-mail addresses are not published except at author's request. Acknowledgment of submission does not guarantee publication.
Read More From...
RECENT COMMENTARY
Wednesday, Dec 10, 2025
I'm overjoyed to share that as of this week, several Altadena residents have moved back into their newly-rebuilt homes in time for the holidays.
Wednesday, Dec 3, 2025
As we wrap up this incredible year with JCI Santa Clarita, my heart is truly overflowing with gratitude. This chapter has shown up in such wonderful ways, and I’m so proud of everything we’ve created together.
Tuesday, Dec 2, 2025
It’s hard to believe that our city will turn 38-years-old as of Monday, Dec. 15.
Tuesday, Dec 2, 2025
As we wrap up another year, I find myself reflecting on how extraordinary and eventful 2025 has been for our city.
Wednesday, Nov 26, 2025
Today, my team and I set out to four different sites across the Fifth District for our 8th Annual Day of Giving.
Tuesday, Nov 25, 2025
One of the things I love most about the Tejon Ranch Conservancy is that there truly is something here for everyone to enjoy and appreciate.

Latest Additions to SCVNews.com
1970 - Snow day in Santa Clarita Valley [photos]
Saugus train station
Do you have a passion for swimming and a desire to make an impact in your community? The city of Santa Clarita is seeking individuals with strong customer service skills and a commitment to community engagement to join its lifeguard team.
Applications Are Open for the Summer 2026 Lifeguard Season
Santa Clarita Valley residents need to put down the yule log and refrain from all residental wood burning fires on Friday, Dec. 19.
Dec. 19: No Burn Day Alert Issued for SCV, South Coast Air Basin
U.S. Rep. George Whitesides (D-Aqua Dulce), announced the winners of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for California’s 27th Congressional District: the “MathViz” team led by local Academy of the Canyons student, Gautham Korrapati.
Whitesides Announces 2025 Congressional App Challenge SCV Winners
The Mardi Gras Madness 1K/5K/10K, set for March 1, in Santa Clarita, is more than a race, it’s a celebration of health, community and giving back. Now through Wednesday, Dec. 24, take $10 OFF race registration with promo code WINTER10 at checkout.
March 1: JCI Santa Clarita Holds Mardi Gras Madness 1K/5K/10K Runs
Theatre Extempore will present the all time classic musical The Fantasticks, 8-10 p.m. Jan. 9-11. 15-18 at The MAIN.
Jan. 9: Premiere of ‘The Fantasticks’ Presented by Theatre Extempore
West Ranch High School senior Braulio Castillo (17) never did any long-distance running before high school, but what he has accomplished in that demanding discipline since taking it up is impressive. And, so far his senior year, it is phenomenal.
West Ranch Runner Going the Distance
Powerlab Studio will hold its grand opening and ribbon cutting 4:30-5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 8 at 28110 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia, CA 91355.
Jan 8: Powerlab Studio Grand Opening, Ribbon Cutting
B2 Entertainment will have a Cookies With Santa event, 3-5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21 at 21516 Golden Triangle Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91350.
Dec. 21: Cookies With Santa at MB2 Entertainment
The College of the Canyons soccer programs will be hosting 'Friday Night Footy,' small-sided pick-up games, running on Friday evenings Jan. 2 through June 26 at the COC Soccer Facility.
Jan. 2-June 26: Cougars Soccer Programs to Host ‘Friday Night Footy’
College of the Canyons sophomore pitcher Nichole Muro will continue her academic and athletic career at Cumberland University after signing with the Phoenix softball program.
Muro Signs with Cumberland University Softball Program
College of the Canyons men's basketball won its fourth straight contest in an 80-72 affair at Napa Valley College on Monday afternoon, Dec. 15 as freshman Julius Washington led all scorers with 20 points.
Cougars Win Fourth Straight 80-72 at Napa Valley
Canyons women's basketball snapped a five-game losing streak with a 60-44 win over Diablo Valley College during the final day of action at the Napa Valley Storm Surge tournament on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Canyons Finishes Tourney Weekend with 60-44 Win Over Diablo Valley
1929 - Swift justice: Thomas Vernon sentenced to life in prison for Saugus train derailment & robbery 1 month earlier [story]
Tom Vernon
The Newhall School District Board of Trustees met on Tuesday, Dec. 16 for its annual organiational meeting.
Newhall School Board Elects Rachelle Haddoak 2026 Board President
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department  Forensic In-Patient Step Down program’s success has led to an annual graduation that not only celebrates the participants for the progress they have made in the program but also acknowledges the department’s commitment to excellence in custody operations. 
LASD Custody Division Honors Inmates on the Path of Recovery and Success
The study of bones from the largest collection of Neandertal remains in Northern Europe has revealed evidence of selective cannibalism targeting Neandertal females and children between 41,000 and 45,000 years ago.
Research by CSUN Prof Finds Neandertal Selective Cannibalism 45,000 Years Ago
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond today announced that registration is open for the second annual School Leadership to End Hate Winter Institute, co-hosted by the California Department of Education and the California Teachers Collaborative for Holocaust and Genocide Education.
State Education Dept. to Address Rising Antisemitism, Hate
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department was awarded a $134,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety
LASD Crime Lab Awarded Grant to Bolster Testing for DUI Cases
Southern California’s iconic Joshua trees are in bloom, and California State University, Northridge’s environmental biologists are asking the public’s help in figuring out why and what it means for the trees’ future.
CSUN Researchers Call for Public’s Help in Documenting Joshua Trees’ Surprise Out-of-Season Bloom
The California Department of Motor Vehicles today issued its decision in the Tesla administrative case, adopting the administrative law judge’s proposed decision
DMV Finds Tesla Violated California State Law With ‘Autopilot’ Terms
Starting January 1, 2026, Santa Clarita Transit is launching Fare Capping, meaning once riders hit the daily or weekly cap, the rest of their local rides are free.
Santa Clarita Transit Launches Fare Capping Beginning January 2026
The University Library at California State University, Northridge has completed the processing and cataloging of the Los Angeles Jewish Federation Community Relations Committee (CRC) Archives, spanning from 1921 to 2000, providing researchers and the public access to one of the most comprehensive archives documenting the Jewish community’s role in combating antisemitism, fascism and discrimination in Southern California and beyond.
CSUN University Library Announces Completion of Jewish Community Archives Processing (1921–2000)
1839 - Judge John F. Powell born in Galway, Ireland [story]
John F. Powell
SCVNews.com