Should free speech protect someone from consequences if they spew hate?

I was thinking of Scott Adams, of 'Dilbert' fame, and the recent incident that got him dropped from hundreds of newspapers and it got me to thinking, "Should free speech protect someone from consequences if they spew hate?"

Free speech does not, and should not, protect someone from consequences if they spew hate. While individuals have the right to express their opinions and beliefs freely, they must also take responsibility for the consequences of their speech. Hate speech, defined as speech that targets individuals or groups based on their race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or other characteristics, is not protected by the First Amendment in the United States or similar legal protections in other countries, and there is absolutely no place for it in a modern, civil society.

Hate speech can have harmful consequences, including promoting discrimination, inciting violence, and perpetuating stereotypes and prejudice. In many cases, hate speech can also violate the rights of individuals and communities to live without fear of harassment, violence, or intimidation.

Therefore, while individuals have the right to express their opinions freely, they also have a responsibility to consider the impact of their speech on others, and should realize that there will be, and must be, consequences to their actions. When hate speech crosses the line into harassment or incitement to violence, it is important for society to take action to protect the rights of those who are targeted. This may include legal action, social pressure, or other forms of accountability, depending on the specific circumstances. In the case of 'Dilbert,' it means Scott Adams losing an audience of millions, and losing the money that comes with all of that circulation.