Long-time admirers of National Public Radio (including moi) may be taken aback by a recent memo from Ellen Weiss, Senior Vice President for News:

“NPR journalists may not participate in marches and rallies involving causes or issues that NPR covers, nor should they sign petitions or otherwise lend their name to such causes, or contribute money to them. This restriction applies to the upcoming John Stewart and Stephen Colbert rallies.”

Jon will doubtless have some comment of his own on the Daily Show, but journalists may be as alarmed by a News head with a spelling deficit as an organization whose Executive Chief endorses the order and adds, “So please think twice about the message you may be sending about our objectivity before you attend a rally or post a bumper sticker or yard sign. We are all NPR.

“If you have any questions or concerns, please speak to your supervisor. ”

Achtung!

Does the First Amendment say anything about yard signs?

Cross-posted from my blog.