Freedom of expression is the cornerstone of any democracy. Whatever issue one cares about, the critical first step towards positive change is the foundational right to speak out. Those arrested at the "Solidarity Sing Alongs" at and around the state capitol building in Madison, Wisconsin while peaceably petitioning their government should not have to face hundreds or thousands of dollars in fines and courts costs; this a form of financial intimidation and an impingement on free speech that none of us should tolerate. We need to stand up for each other if we are to maintain a democracy in America. Attorney General Van Hollen, you have the ability to dismiss these cases at your discretion, and we strongly encourage you to do so.