The Miami Beach Democratic Club stands firmly with democracy, freedom of speech, and our Constitution. Recent actions by Mayor Steven Meiner to target O Cinema—threatening to terminate its lease and revoke funding over its decision to screen the Oscar-winning documentary No Other Land—are undemocratic, unconstitutional, and deeply concerning.
Miami Beach has always been a city that values diversity, inclusion, and the free exchange of ideas. The First Amendment guarantees the right to express diverse viewpoints without government interference. The mayor’s attempt to punish a public theater for its movie choice is a blatant attack on free speech and sets a dangerous precedent.
O Cinema has long supported the Jewish community, hosting a monthly Holocaust film series and partnering with the Miami Jewish Film Festival. The idea that a single film—one that some may disagree with—would be grounds for government retaliation is not only unjust but contradicts the values that Miami Beach stands for.
When elected officials believe they can censor speech they oppose, we must ask: What will be censored next? We call on our fellow Miami Beach residents to stand up against this overreach and reaffirm our city’s commitment to democracy and free expression. The Miami Beach Democratic Club will always defend the rights and freedoms that define our community and our nation.
We affirm that the Miami Beach City Commissioners must uphold the values of our city and the Constitution. They should reject the Mayor’s resolution and reaffirm their commitment to freedom of speech, artistic expression, and an open exchange of ideas.
Take Action – Contact Your City Commissioners
Let your voice be heard! Email or call your City Commissioners and demand they reject the Mayor’s resolution and stand for free speech.
📞 Find their contact information here:Miami Beach Elected Officials Contact Info
🗣️ Attend the Commission Meeting – Speak Out Against Censorship!
Public comment will take place on Wednesday at 8:30 AM or after lunch around 1:30 PM at Miami Beach City Hall.
Make sure to show up and let our elected officials know that Miami Beach will not tolerate censorship.
Together, we can protect democracy, free expression, and Miami Beach’s commitment to an open exchange of ideas.
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