First Amendment

The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution outlines five fundamental rights that individuals have with regard to the government: freedom of speech and expression, freedom of the press, freedom of assembly, freedom to petition the government, and freedom of religion.

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Learn about the First Amendment's five fundamental rights, and scroll down to explore our work protecting First Amendment rights in Rhode Island through litigation, advocacy, and education.

The Latest

Know Your Rights
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KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: Protests & Demonstrations

Know your rights when it comes to protests, marches and demonstrations.
Know Your Rights
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KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: Students & The First Amendment

News & Commentary
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ACLU Files Court Brief in Public Employee Free Speech Case Arguing that “Disparaging” Speech is Not Entitled to Less Protection

The brief argues that the court applied an inappropriate standard by judging the speech based on its tone, rather than any disruptive effect it had in the workplace, potentially diminishing free speech protections for all public employees.
News & Commentary
Pink and dark red graphic including ACLU of RI, RICADV, and Lawyer's Committee for RI logos

Nationwide Coalition Challenges Trump Administration’s Attempt to Withhold Support from Noncitizen Victims of Crime

Legal Filing Seeks Immediate Court Intervention to Protect Violence Prevention Funding
Legislation
Feb 12, 2026

Threats Against School Employees (H 7552)

Position: Oppose
Legislation
Mar 31, 2025

Workplace First Amendment Rights (H 5506, S 126)

Status: Signed into Law
Position: Support
Legislation
Mar 17, 2025

Protections for Libraries (S 238B, H 5726A)

Status: Signed into Law
Position: Support
Legislation
Mar 10, 2025

Senate Rules (S 594)

Position: Support