Dictionary definition of “heckler’s veto”

heckler’s veto

n. the cancellation or suppression of a public event (such as a discussion, speech, or rally) due to (threat of) interruptions, protests, or violence. Subjects: English, Politics

Etymological Note: The origin of the term given in the 1977 citation has not been verified.

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Citations: 1977 Staughton Lynd @ Niles, Ohio New York Times (Sept. 30) “About Nazi Marches and the ‘Heckler’s Veto’” p. 21: The late Harry Kalven Jr. of the University of Chicago Law School invented the phrase “heckler’s veto” to characterize Mr. Taffel’s position. One taking that position says to the would-be demonstrator: You must not march because if you do I will become violent. 1981 New York Times (Aug. 12) “Rugby Decision Criticized”: In a letter to Mr. Koch, Dorothy J. Samuels, the Civil Liberties Union official, said that “to allow this kind of “heckler’s veto’ bodes poorly for the free exchange of diverse and sometimes unpopular viewpoints in this City.” 1986 J. Anthony Lukas Common Ground (Aug. 12) p. 650: The Supreme Cour had held that judges could not permit a “heckler’s veto” by tailoring their findings to fear of white violence or flight from the schools. 2006 Tamara Dietrich Daily Press (Hampton Roads, Va.) (Mar. 31) “Catalyst for youth fervor wore dress”: You can’t let the mere possibility of violence restrict free speech—or what’s known as the “heckler’s veto.”

Posted 10 Apr 06 | Permalink | Tell a Friend

Reader comments:

I need to know more about the legallities of removing the heckler that disrupted Laura Bushs book signing at Borders just a few days ago
http://cancelthebee.blogs pot.com/2008/04/gary-germ an-talis-update-i-got-ram med.html
I’m sure there is a law that allows for removal of hecklers. I just dont know how to search it down.
I,ve done extensive research but I,m looking for the actual law that says you can be removed from the room for doing such a thing

by micky 27 Apr 08, 0737 GMT