[user104658]

Originally Posted by The Slim Reaper

I am a strong free speech advocate, but free speech is not the same as consequence-free speech.

And that's exactly what we have an example of here, a pretty good one really. "Free speech" is shorthand for "expression free from the risk of persecution or prosecution by the authorities". It has never indicated any protection from personal retribution or professional repercussions. That's the double edged sword.