 We will be discussing the First Amendment today. What do you already know about the First Amendment to our Constitution?

The First Amendment

Civil Liberties  The Bill of Rights, added in 1791 at the insistence of the Anti-Federalists, protects our civil liberties—the freedoms we have to think and act without government interference or fear of unfair treatment.

The First Amendment  The First Amendment protects five basic freedoms: R eligion A ssembly P ress P etition the Government S peech

Freedom of Religion  Establishment Clause: Congress may not establish an official religion or favor one religion over another  Free Exercise Clause: Government can not prevent you from practicing a religion.

Freedom of Assembly  We may gather in groups for any reason, as long as the assemblies are peaceful.  Governments can make rules about when and where activities can be held but cannot ban them.  We may freely join clubs, political parties, unions, and other organizations.

Freedom of the Press  We may express ourselves freely in print and other media.  The government cannot practice censorship—it cannot ban printed materials or films because they contain offensive ideas. Can not ban information before it is published or broadcast- prior restraint.

Freedom to Petition the Government  A petition is an formal request for action. We can complain or express ideas by writing to our elected representatives or by signing petitions.

Freedom of Speech  We can say what we want, in public or in private, without fear of punishment.  Freedom of speech includes conversations, radio, and TV.  It also protects forms of expression other than the spoken word, such as clothing.

Limits to First Amendment Freedoms

Limits to First Amendment Limited to protect safety and security  Can not provoke a riot.  Can not speak or write in a way that leads to criminal activities or efforts to overthrow the government.  Can not interfere with the rights of others.

Slander and Libel  You should use civil liberties responsibly and not interfere with the rights of others.  You may criticize government officials but not spread lies that harm a person’s reputation. Doing so is a crime called slander if the lies are spoken and libel if they are printed.

Freedom of Speech  Unpopular speech and hate speech is protected as long as another person’s rights are not violated. Ex. KKK has right to march, but can not burn property or harass people.  Vulgar, obscene speech is protected in most venues (but not at school!!!!)  I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it. “ - Voltaire