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Free Speech & Assembly
It is probably no accident that freedom of speech is one of the first freedoms mentioned in the First Amendment: "Congress shall make no law...abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." The Constitution’s framers believed that freedom of inquiry and liberty of expression were the hallmarks of a democratic society.
But historically, at times of national stress -- real or imagined -- First Amendment rights come under enormous pressure. During the "Red Scare" of the early 1920s, thousands were deported for their political views. During the McCarthy period, the infamous blacklist ruined lives and careers. Today, the creators, producers and distributors of popular culture are often blamed for the nation’s deep social problems. Calls for censorship threaten to erode free speech.
The First Amendment exists precisely to protect the most offensive and controversial speech from government suppression. The best way to counter obnoxious speech is with more speech. Persuasion, not coercion, is the solution.
Publications
1 Know Your Rights: Protests
2 Freedom of Expression Brief
3 Free Speech Blog: ACLU Historian Sam Walker on McCarthy Era
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News & Resources
4.23.08
ACLU of Massachusetts Secures Victory for Freedom of Speech and Association
Case Against NAMBLA Members Dismissed With Prejudice
Statement
5.16.07
ACLUM statement on SB 1353, the "buffer zone" bill.
10.17.06
Teacher sues High School headmaster after being barred from school in First Amendment rights violation.
>>Press Release
>>Complaint
Advisory on the Pledge of Allegiance
This memo is intended to advise the public and school officials about state law and the pledge of
allegiance in Massachusetts public schools. |
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