A new poll suggests nearly one-third of Americans fear being “canceled” if they share their personal opinions publicly.
The survey of 1,000 likely voters found one-third of respondents believe sharing their personal beliefs could have negative repercussions in their professional and personal lives.
Of those surveyed, 31% said they are “very” or “somewhat” concerned their beliefs and opinions could cost them their jobs. Forty-two percent of those surveyed said they are hesitant to share their opinions on cultural or political issues for fear of backlash from family, friends or co-workers. Almost equal numbers of Republicans (45%), Democrats (38%) and Independents (44%) shared that hesitancy.
Blacklisting ‘not helpful’
A majority (79%) of those surveyed agreed people who adhere to values found in the Bible have the right to express their religious beliefs publicly. Only 13% of respondents said “canceling” or blacklisting someone for their opinions or beliefs, whether offensive or not, is helpful to American society.
“There are many things that divide Americans, but this poll shows that Republican, Independent and Democrat voters are united about one thing: they strongly oppose the current trend of canceling and blacklisting people for their beliefs,” said Jeff Myers, president of Summit Ministries. “Americans overwhelmingly support the right of people to express their religious convictions.
“Yet a stunning one-third of voters fear losing their jobs for expressing their beliefs,” he added. “This is a dramatic revelation. Freedom cannot thrive if a large number of people live in fear of losing their livelihoods for having a viewpoint. Corporate and political leaders must take these concerns seriously.”
The online survey was conducted by Summit Ministries in partnership with McLaughlin and Associates.
