Defending the Dixie Chicks

Fans of the Dixie Chicks have started a freedom-of-speech petition seeking support for lead singer Natalie Maines after the South Carolina legislature last week adopted a resolution requesting an apology and a free concert for military families when the trio opens its U.S. tour in Greenville, S.C., in May.

State Rep. Catherine Ceips said she introduced the resolution because military personnel from the state were offended by Maines’ comment that she was “ashamed” that President Bush is from Texas.