If it was as simple as a disagreement, that would be fine. But it's not just simple disagreements anymore. It is costing people their livelihoods and futures because they're not toeing the ever shifting line.
When exactly was this mythical time when not toeing the line came without consequences?
I'm not sure, I'm just as confused as you about this mystical time. I don't remember ever mentioning a time where words didn't have consequences, just when you wouldn't lose your job because someone across the country heard you say something they didn't like.
The internet and the IT industry used to be a lot more free-form and libertarian, where people could debate or advocate almost anything.