Jane Fonda seems to have found herself in hot water yet again. On yesterday’s broadcast of the Today show, she dropped what some people consider to be the most offensive word in the English language. The word, a slang reference for a part of the female anatomy, was used in reference to a monologue in the widely popular play “The Vagina Monologues.” As one can see from clips all over the internet, the word was said and everyone around acted as though nothing had happened and continued on with the interview. Later in the show, Today host Meredith Viera made an on-air apology and NBC has since issued an apology as well. Working for a print publication, there are no limits to what words we print in the magazine as we are protected under the First Amendment and this incident from the Today show will only bring alive the debate on free speech once again. It surprised me that shows like Today and Good Morning America (which had a slip up a few weeks back when Diane Keaton used the f-word) don’t routinely use delays. What may be said during live interviews is anybody’s guess. Ever since the Super Bowl incidents, FCC rules are a lot stricter and I am surprised these shows are not more concerned about protecting themselves against fines. According to The Huffington Report, the play being referenced on the show is working towards giving that word a more positive, empowering meaning. However, the fact remains that the word has completely the opposite meaning in today’s society and it is considered highly offensive. Most movies and songs contain language that is considered highly offensive on a regular basis and our culture is highly desensitized to words beginning with “f” and most other slang, but the word uttered by Fonda still remains largely taboo. What do you think – should broadcast have the right to free speech? Was Fonda wrong and should she and NBC be fined? -Kimberly Krol, circulation and public relations