WHY ISN'T JUDGE BROADCASTING ON YOUTUBE ?
Why My Content Was Removed from YouTube: A First Strike on Free Speech
On June 13, 2024, I published an interview featuring myself and journalist Pepe Escobar, where we engaged in a deep and critical discussion on global geopolitics. Our conversation was candid, tackling complex and often controversial topics that challenge the mainstream narratives. Unfortunately, this content was recently removed from YouTube, and I received a “first strike” on my channel—a decision that raises serious concerns about the limits of free speech on major digital platforms.
In the interview, Pepe Escobar and I explored a wide range of issues, from international relations to the role of the U.S. in various global conflicts. Our discussion was rooted in historical context, rigorous analysis, and a shared commitment to uncovering the truth behind the headlines. Both Pepe and I have built our careers on questioning authority and offering perspectives that are frequently marginalized by the mainstream media.
WATCH THE INTERVIEW HERE and DECIDE FOR YOURSELF:
YouTube’s Strike System
YouTube’s strike system is designed to enforce its Community Guidelines, which outline what is deemed acceptable content on the platform. Myself and our team work hard to bring you the best content allowed within these guidelines. A first strike typically indicates that the content in question was found to violate these guidelines. Although YouTube did not provide a detailed explanation, their reasoning often includes concerns about misinformation, hate speech, or the promotion of violence. A first strike comes with serious consequences, including temporary restrictions on content uploads and live streaming, which significantly hampers a creator’s ability to engage with their audience.
The removal of my interview with Pepe Escobar was more than just a personal setback; it was a troubling sign of the growing constraints on open discourse. Despite the lack of clarity from YouTube regarding the specific violation, it’s evident that the subject matter of our conversation was deemed too controversial or sensitive for the platform.
This incident is part of a broader and more concerning trend of increased scrutiny and censorship, particularly toward content that challenges the status quo. While platforms like YouTube are essential for the dissemination of information, their policies can sometimes stifle the diversity of voices and perspectives that are crucial for a healthy public discourse. When content is removed, and strikes are issued without clear justification, it can create a chilling effect, discouraging creators from addressing important, albeit contentious, issues.
Moving Forward
While combating misinformation and harmful content is important, we must also protect free speech and ensure that critical conversations are not unjustly suppressed. As we face this challenge, I remain resolute in my commitment to providing thought-provoking and insightful content, even if it means exploring alternative platforms or methods of distribution.
Though YouTube may have removed the conversation between Pepe Escobar and me, the issues we discussed are far from silenced. I urge my audience to stay engaged, seek out a variety of information sources, and continue to question the narratives that shape our world.
Judging Freedom will return to YouTube on Wednesday, 21-August, 2024. In addition to YouTube, Judging Freedom is now available on Rumble. You can access and follow the channel here: https://rumble.com/c/JudgingFreedom
