Most Americans are all for the Constitution. Throw in some freedom of speech and you’re golden. Add a pinch of racism and homophobia and you’ve got “Duck Dynasty” star Phil Robertson in a nutshell. Robertson’s comments on homosexuality and race in a recent interview with GQ magazine have caused a storm of controversy, prompting the excessively popular reality show to propel into the national spotlight. And honestly, the fact that we are shocked is tiring in itself.

Phil Robertson is entitled to speak his mind. The Constitution protects his right to speak freely. What the Constitution does not protect him from is the criticism he has rightfully received, nor does it protect his franchise-making reality show. In a day and age where open mindedness is the new norm, the Old South mentality of Robertson will not fly. It baffles me that Robertson didn’t fathom how controversial his words were or that someone would catch on. In fact, what makes the comments worse is the defense the Robertson family has used, claiming the remainder of the interview highlights Robertson’s equal treatment of all individuals regardless of his views. That is our problem right there: the mind set that internal hatred is any better than outward warfare on those different from us. Robertson should not be able to use the excuse of being from a “different time” or a “different place.” Robertson lives in the 21st century and thrives off of the viewership of this generation. If he wishes to receive, he must give something back. And that something cannot be against the very ethos that have made him a household name.

I loved watching “Duck Dynasty.” Lazy Sundays with my family were once filled with marathon viewings and quite a bit of laughter. The premise of the show was family and a crazy Uncle Si, my favorite honest Robertson, and their equally crazy lifestyle. What was once entertaining has become tainted, at no fault to GQ or A&E. Robertson, like so many before him, chose to say what he believed. So be it. It’s about time those who choose to speak without thinking first accept consequence as easily as they accept praise.