Freedom of Speech, the Right of Expression

This first amendment of the United States Constitution reads, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

What actions fall under freedom of expression rights?  What topics or concepts are and are not protected?  What constitutes supression of these rights?  The answer to these questions may never be completely clear.  But that should not stop individuals from educating themselves on the history and philosophy behind freedom of expression in order to come to their own conclusions.

The Trinity College Library and Watkinson Library have a multitude of resources regarding freedom of expression in their collections. From secondary sources analyzing the concept in variety of ways to primary sources that serve as examples of these rights in action throughout history, these resources give researchers a wide ranging look at freedom of expression, its interpretations and practices.

This exhibit was created in conjunction with the display of freedom of speech related materials opened in February of 2018 in the Raether Library atrium display case.