The Question:
What is the first amendment?
The Quote:
“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”
The First Amendment
The First Amendment of the Constitution guarantees citizens five overarching freedoms, sometimes called the freedoms of expression, with many subsections that have been expanded on over the years.
First is freedom of and from religion. Unlike the theocracies that existed in Europe, this clause sought to prevent the government from being accountable to religious authorities. Additionally, it allowed people to freely practice their religions, as long as it did not pose an imminent danger to others.
Second is freedom of speech. People can say what they want, when they want. This includes dissent against government officials, offensive words, or even wearing inappropriate shirts. The only exceptions are slander, libel, and dangerous speech. Those are not protected by this section.
Third is freedom of press. Unlike authoritarian nations in which the media is not allowed to share certain things, and the government controls the news cycle, reporters and journalists are free to post what they want as long as it does not violate the previous exceptions mentioned.
Fourth is assembly. People are allowed to gather and protest against the government or organizations. Government can regulate the time and place but not the content of these protests.
Fifth is petition. People can seek change. They can ask for signatures to change laws, they can accuse their government of committing grievances.
These five key freedoms collectively create the freedoms of expression guaranteed by the Bill of Rights. As always, I’m Joseph Pool, your Poolitician and thank you for plunging into politics!
