News & Commentary about Free Speech

Protecting free speech means protecting a free press, the democratic process, diversity of thought, and so much more. The ACLU has worked since 1920 to ensure that freedom of speech is protected for everyone.

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A individual filming a protest in Rincon, Puerto Rico.

Jan 5, 2026

How a COVID-era Law Banning ‘Fake News’ in Puerto Rico Targets the Press

A Soviet-era photo with the white outline of a disfavored person erased

Jan 5, 2026

How to Give the Government New Power to “Un-Person” Someone, in Three Easy Steps

Hands in the air holding cellphones with a protest in background

Nov 25, 2025

Immigration Agents are Retaliating Against People Who Record Them

A graphic that includes images pertaining to reading and the holidays.

Nov 21, 2025

Our Holiday Book Guide for Justice-Minded Readers

Closeup of app store icon on a phone screen

Nov 18, 2025

Your Smartphone, Their Rules: How App Stores Enable Corporate-Government Censorship

Nov 17, 2025

From The Joke Files: A Comedy and Censorship Roundtable

The Utah State Capitol with snowy mountains in the background

Nov 7, 2025

There’s Only One State That is Asking the Right Questions About Digital Identity

Nov 4, 2025

Digital Driver’s Licenses Threaten to Create a “Great Internet Lockdown”

A demonstrator (with only their hands visible) holds up a sign that reads " FREE SPEECH, FREE COUNTRY - ACLU".

Oct 30, 2025

What the First Amendment Really Protects

A person holds a large handwritten sign reading “Protect our First Amendment Freedom of Speech” during a protest outside the El Capitan Entertainment Centre, where Jimmy Kimmel Live! is filmed. Behind them, another protester in a skeleton costume holds a cardboard sign depicting a crossed-out image of Jimmy Kimmel. The demonstration is in response to ABC’s decision to pull Kimmel off the air following his remarks about Charlie Kirk.

Oct 28, 2025

Government Pressure to Suspend Jimmy Kimmel Was an Abuse of Power