that's right up there with saying mental abuse is not actual abuse because there's no physical sign of the abuse.

You think expressing dissent is akin to mental abuse? I think people have every right to express their opinions or dissaproval regardless of how many twitter followers they have.

You can disagree and dissent all you want, but there's a bit of style involved. Gov't discussing legislation you don't like, feel free to shout from the rooftops. Telling someone to their face they are doing something you disagree with is another thing entirely. Holding rallies to let people know you believe they are deviants/perversions of nature/etc serves no purpose other than intimidation.

Advocating for changes in public policy, or opposing changes to currently oppressive public policy, is a zillion times worse than chasing someone with a machete.