The First Amendment prevents Congress from passing any laws that abridge the freedom of speech. But what does that actually mean? We’ll consider the history of speech laws in the United States, how states and municipalities have tried to curb offensive speech, and how the Supreme Court has ruled on those efforts. While some argue that limits on speech are necessary for marginalized persons to feel included, others argue that the criminalization of speech serves the needs of the penal state more than the community.

All arguments are welcome as we make full use of our reasoning powers to bring the First Amendment to life!

Supported by the Vermont Humanities Council