Meaning: The quote you've provided is from Tipper Gore, an American author, social issues advocate, and the former Second Lady of the United States. This quote reflects her views on parental advisory and censorship in the entertainment industry. Let's break down the quote to understand its significance and the context in which it was made.

"Voluntary resources" refers to tools and ratings that are made available to parents to help them make informed decisions about the content their children are exposed to. This might include movie ratings, music advisory labels, and content warnings on TV shows and video games. These resources are not mandatory, but rather optional tools that parents can use to guide their children's media consumption.

The phrase "help parents sort out the choices" highlights the purpose of these voluntary resources. It acknowledges the challenges parents face in navigating the vast and often explicit content that is available in today's media landscape. These resources aim to provide clarity and guidance, empowering parents to make decisions that align with their values and beliefs.

The quote also emphasizes the importance of not infringing on the artists' rights to free speech. This is a crucial aspect of the discussion around censorship and content regulation. Tipper Gore acknowledges that while it's important to protect children from potentially harmful content, it's equally important to uphold the freedom of expression for artists and creators. This reflects a balanced approach that seeks to find a middle ground between protecting young audiences and respecting the creative liberties of content producers.

The reference to "something that we respect" indicates Tipper Gore's personal stance on the matter. It suggests that she and others who share her views prioritize the protection of children while also valuing the rights of artists. This sentiment aligns with her involvement in advocacy work related to children's welfare and education during her time as Second Lady.

The context in which this quote was made is important to consider. Tipper Gore is known for her involvement in the Parents Music Resource Center (PMRC), a committee formed in the 1980s that advocated for parental advisory labels on music packaging. The PMRC's efforts led to the introduction of the "Parental Advisory" label, which signaled explicit content in music releases. This initiative sparked debates about censorship, artistic freedom, and the role of parental guidance in children's media consumption.

In conclusion, Tipper Gore's quote encapsulates a nuanced perspective on the intersection of parental advisory, censorship, and free speech in the entertainment industry. It underscores the importance of providing voluntary resources for parents to make informed choices while respecting the rights of artists to express themselves. This perspective continues to be relevant in ongoing discussions about media regulation and the protection of young audiences.