The atmosphere surrounding free speech in the United States has become a focal point of debate, reflecting differing views across varied societal groups. NPR’s Morning Edition sought insights from legal experts, educators, scientists, and activists to examine the current landscape of First Amendment rights.
The series “The State of the First Amendment: The Right From Which All Other Rights Flow” uncovers the voices of those who felt silenced prior to President Trump’s return to office and those who experience such feelings now. Investigations reveal that scientists are omitting certain language from reports and federal grants due to banned words by the Trump administration. Some student activists fear deportation when engaging in protests, while teachers express concerns about a new U.S. Department of Education portal for complaints regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion lessons.
“When students make connections to events in history that don’t frame the current administration in a positive light and then ask questions, it gives me pause,” said E., a high school history teacher who requested anonymity. “I’ve had to hold back, sometimes changing the subject abruptly, telling them that I can’t comment.”
Tune in to NPR and visit NPR.org every day this week for in-depth stories on “The State of the First Amendment: The Right From Which All Other Rights Flow.”
Meanwhile, groups such as anti-abortion activists, the far-right Moms for Liberty, and Republican clubs at universities report feeling more liberated to voice their opinions since President Trump’s return. “We now have more members who are willing to help us publicize the club, attach their faces to the club, and be outwardly and openly conservative than we did before the election,” said Miguel Muniz, president of the College Republicans at the University of California, Berkeley.
A poll by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression found free speech to be the second most crucial issue for voters leading up to the 2024 presidential election, surpassing crime, immigration, and health care. The survey indicated that Republicans were particularly concerned, with nearly half of them feeling less free to speak under President Joe Biden than under President Trump.
In response to these issues, President Trump swiftly signed an executive order to “restore freedom of speech and end federal censorship.” Critics argue that his administration favors free speech that aligns with its viewpoints.
You can find all the stories in this series here.
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