ABSTRACT
This chapter explains that free speech is practiced in a prejudiced and distorting way by some news media when it comes to reporting on Muslim minorities. It describes that when Muslims make use of the provisions of free speech be it to defend themselves, to criticise the dominant society or to protest it only earns them condemnation. The chapter shows the selective use of free speech by the media and some politicians and how this contributes to the poor image Muslims and Islam have in Australia. It also elucidates the different dimensions of representation the mass media embrace in reporting about Muslims. The chapter demonstrates how free speech, or more specifically media freedom, operates in Australia, Britain and America when looked at from a Muslim point of view. The Islamophobic media stereotype remains effectively unchallenged. In contrast, when protests are voiced by Muslims they usually only add to the media's negative portrayal of Islam.
