October 20-26 is Free Speech Week!

"Established in 2005, Free Speech Week is a yearly event to raise public awareness of the importance of freedom of speech and of the press in our democracy- and to celebrate that freedom."

The second link above leads to a number of other useful links, including the Index on Censorship, which the magazine and issue archive are worthy of futher investigation as to the state of our freedoms in the United States and around the world.

In the United States, there are over 350 spoken and signed languages All of them united by the one right they all share: freedom of speech.

Know that speech is more than the words you say out loud. Artistic expressions, like movies, music, TV shows, paintings, plays, books, dance and more, are considered speech under the First Amendment.

Your right to remain silent is protected as well. The government can neither tell you what to say or what not to say.

Most notably, your First Amendment rights are protected from government interference. "The First Amendment begins “Congress shall make no law …” to restrict the five freedoms of religion, speech, press, assembly and petition. Over time, the courts have interpreted this to apply to all branches of government at any level, from town councils to state legislatures to federal agencies and Congress, as well as punishments imposed by courts. So, if you’re arrested or punished by the government for your speech, you might have a First Amendment claim." Freedom Forum

Now, not all types of speech are protected, but it is generally up to the government to justify a restriction on free speech.

What is so spectacular is the First Amendment protects everyone in the United States. These five freedoms are inalienable rights for all.

All that glitters is not gold, however. If history is our guide, be wise, walk carefully, and be ready to stand up for your rights! It's like in the law of thermodynamics, something is always pushing against your progress.

The First Amendment Museum is of nterest in this regard. There are many resources for you to explore. The Virtual Exhibits are especially noteworthy. Art & Politics: 300 Years of Political Cartoons and Protest Music: Songs and Free Speech are just two of the Virtual Exhibits deserving mention.

We end on the wisdom Bob Marley, freedom fighter, so boldly sang:

"But if you know what life is worth
You would look for yours on earth
And now you see the light.
You stand up for your right, yeah."

Submitted by Eric Taylor, Evening Reference Librarian on October 20, 2025

This article appears in the categories: Law Library