Five Freedoms #1 by Stephanie Ganser https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var Current Events: Freedom of Speech, Religion, Press, Assembly and Petition en-us 2017-04-06 16:00:52 UTC 2025-10-08 12:59:01 UTC hello@padlet.com Stephanie Ganser (1) Assembly sganser https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/165194713 April 3, 2017, Press TV
What's happening?: States are introducing bills in their legislatures that place restricts and penalties on the right to assemble and protest. Bills suggesting to increase penalties for protesters who block highways, cause riots, continue to assemble after directed to disperse, etc.
Why is this happening?: States are concerned with the increase of undemocratic, violent behavior during protests since Trump took office.
Effect on freedom to assemble: These laws would infringe on the freedom to assemble and protest. They would result in discouraging people from exercising this right.
How I see it: I do not agree with limiting and punishing those that assemble to voice their postion. We need to deal with individual violent protesters and punish them for causing violence or harm. We should not discourage an entire group from assembling and sharing their perspectives because of individual inappropriate behavior.  This will lead to oppression.]]> 2017-04-06 16:23:44 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/165194713 Caitlin Truffer (2) Religion https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166402699 March 20, 2017, The Huffington Post
What's happening?: At Liberty High School in the Frisco School District in Texas, students use an empty classroom for prayer time. A Texas Attorney, Deputy Attorney General Andrew Leonie, seemed to find fault with this as he seemed to believe that that the classroom was only being used by Muslim students. To him, the action was violating the Free Exercise Clause of the freedom of religion in the First Amendment.
Why is this happening?: The Texas Attorney believes that only Muslim's were using this room. It may have appeared that way due to the fact that Muslim students would miss almost two hours of school to attend their weekly service. So, they now use the classroom instead.
Effect on freedom to religion: If only Muslims were using the classroom, and other religions were being excluded (like the attorney seemed to believe), this would be a violation of the free exercise clause of the first amendment because the public school would be stopping students from practicing the religion of their choice. The state-run public high school would not be giving students the religious liberty described in the first amendment.
How I see it: The attorney cannot assume that because those practicing the Muslim religion are using the room that other religions are not allowed to be practiced in the spare classroom as well. Of course, I believe that all religions are allowed to be practiced as long as no one is making the students practice a particular religion, no one is establishing a religion for the students (establishment clause), and no one is stopping them from practicing a religion.]]> 2017-04-14 20:03:27 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166402699 Emma Youngman (3) Speech https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166537241 January 18, 2017, RedState
What's happening?
A rock group, whose members are Asian, called, "The Slants" ("slant" being a derogotory term to refer to the eye-shape of those of Asian decent), looked for trademark protection in order to "take back" the term.
Why is this happening?
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) denied the rock group of the trademark under the disparagement clause, but Michelle K. Lee, the Petitioner, has appealed and wants to take this case further, most likely because she does not want this derogatory term being used and trademarked.
Effect on freedom of speech:
This rock band believes that under the First Amendment's freedom of speech, they should be able to name and trademark their band "The Slants". If they cannot use this name for their band, their free speech is being taken away.
How I see it:
Although the name of their band may be controversial, it is still protected. Unprotected speech includes obscenity, defamation, child pornography, perjury, and fighting words, and "The Slants" does not fall into any of those categories in my opinion. If their band is ready to deal with the controversiality of their name, it is their choice to have that name. ]]> 2017-04-17 13:12:03 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166537241 Tristan George (4) Assembly tageorge https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166612348 April 16, 2017, CNN
What's happening?
In Berkeley, California, Trump supporters and Trump protesters were speaking their minds in organized rallies. Eventually,  the protests became violent when supporters of  each side began to fight with one another.
Why is this happening?
Anti-Trump protesters wanted to get together and protest to show their stance against President Trump.  Meanwhile, Pro-Trump citizens wanted to show their support for President Trump.
Effect on freedom to assemble:
This violent protest and others alike it around the country may lead to national or state governments instituting laws that prohibit or limit a citizen's freedom to assemble. California, where these protests occurred, has already suggested and is continuing to ponder instituting laws such as these. They may do this to ensure the safety of people and their property.  Also, governments may even institute penalties such as fines to punish people who exercise their First Amendment right.
How I see it:
I believe that citizens should be able to assemble and express their opinions in a non-violent, organized manner. However, protesters who become violent and commit crimes during protests should be dealt with under the rules of the law. I believe that  California state legislature or any state is in the wrong if they institute laws that suppress the right citizens have to assemble because this right is given to the people through the base of our government, the constitution.]]> 2017-04-17 18:47:14 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166612348 Sophia Sciaudone (5) Religion https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166623271 April 16, 2017, NBC News
What's happening?
Trinity Lutheran, a church in Missouri, is not being given assistance by the state government to help renovate their playground because the playground is affiliated with a Church.
Why is this happening?
This is happening because the state said that the Missouri constitution does not allow for public money to go to anything related to a Church or a religious institution.
Effect on freedom of religion:
It could be argued that by giving money to a religious institution, the state is showing favoritism for one religion over another. The other side of the argument is that the funds in question are supposed to go to make playgrounds safer, regardless of if a religious institution is involved or not.
How I see it:
I feel that people should feel more concerned with the safety of children on playgrounds, rather than if the playground itself it a part of a Church or religious institution. I don't see why there is a violation of religious freedom if you are not showing favoritism for one religion over another.]]> 2017-04-17 19:52:19 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166623271 John Paul Farrell (6) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166724460 Religion
Nov. 26 2016
What's happening?: Bill Levin founded a church named the First Church of Cannabis, claiming that, due to his freedom of religion, he had every right to smoke weed so long as it was for religious purposes. For a short period of time the police and government needed to check the legality and freedoms he did or did not have.
Why is this happening?:
Levin opened the church claiming that marijuana was their form of communion and that he had a right under the first amendment to smoke marijuana. Some agree with him in the fact that it is his religion and is not directly harming others, however others believe he is only using the church as a cover to smoke. Law enforcement are not sure precisely whether or not he is violating any rights and at the time prevented people from entering the property.
Effect on freedom of religion:
I believe that if police stop this they are not violating the first amendment due to the fact that he created the church prior to the illegalization of marijuana.
How I see it:
I believe that the church should be shut down and he should be arrested for possession, distribution, and use of marijuana. The reason I believe this is because the laws were preexisting and therefore were not made to discriminate against him, or his religion, also his religious practices are outside of the law and therefore should not be practiced.

http://www.indystar.com/story/news/2016/11/27/first-church-of-cannabis-bill-levin-legalized-marijuana-medical-marijuana/93883862/]]> 2017-04-18 11:50:20 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166724460 Emily Zlatniski (7) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166724534 Assembly
February 4th, 2017, USA Today
What's happening?:Over ten-thousand people took part in organized rallies that occurred across the United States with the largest ones being in New York and Washington D.C. on Saturday, February 4th. While some blocked traffic and caused minor inconveniences, others caused fights and violence.
Why is this happening?:
People are not pleased with President Trump's agenda, more specifically the wall. By voicing their disapproval, the protesters said they were trying to protect more vulnerable communities.
Effect on freedom to assemble: There have been many protests throughout the United States since President Trump took office. If they continue on the same path of violence, the government will most likely attempt to intervene with fines and laws limiting the right to assemble for safety reasons.
How I see it: I think that people should have the right to come together and voice their opinion. There is nothing wrong with the protests over the wall; the issue is the violence that comes with it. To prevent the violence, it is not fair for everyone to have their right to assemble limited. The certain individuals who abuse it and cause violence should be dealt with separately to ensure the freedoms entrusted to the people in the Constitution remain. 

]]> 2017-04-18 11:50:44 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166724534 Mckayla Tallman (8) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166725149 Speech
October 27, 2016, U.S. News
What's happening?
A college student is being thrown out of a nursing program for writing unprofessional posts on Facebook during his free time. The student was removed from the University and its Nursing program.
Why is this happening?
This is happening because the student chose to write about substance abuse and threatened to give someone a hemopneumothorax on Facebook; a hemopneumothorax is when the chest cavity is filled with blood and air.
Effects on freedom to speech: This certain situation might provoke an angry crowd to protest its' rights to posting on social media on a persons free time. This might also effect freedom of speech because people might think that what they say on social media in their free time will be censored and used against the; however if there are certain University rules that say writing vulgar posts is instituted then the effect on freedom of speech is not a big effect.
How I see it:
I agree and disagree with what happened to the college student. It clearly states in the Universities Nursing program guidelines that an individual must uphold the image of the school on and off campus, they must establish boundaries between the school and their personal free time, and many other rules and guidelines that clearly state what the student did was wrong. I also disagree with the process of how the student was kicked out of school. The article tells us that the university has a certain process for reprimanding students and in this instance the proper process was not used.]]> 2017-04-18 11:53:55 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166725149 Tommy Smith (9) tesmith1 https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166725796 Speech
April 26, 2016
Whats Happening?
Jeffery Heffernan, A detective for the police force of Paterson, New Jersey was seen picking up lawn signs from a local distribution center that supported the candidate challenging the mayor that was currently in office. Heffernan, who was not a supporter of the candidate did this as a favor for his mother, who was. Other police officers in the same force witnessed the act and told the chief officer. The chief officer was very against the candidate and demoted Heffernan from his original position as a detective. Heffernan brought the case to court saying it violated his First Amendment rights.
Why is this happening?
This is happening because Jeffery Heffernan believes that being demoted for carrying the opposing candidates sign is a violation of his First Amendment rights of Protected Speech.
Effect on freedom of speech:
Jeffery Heffernan believes his freedom of speech had been violated and that what he was seen doing is protected speech under the rights of the first amendment. If he had lost this case, it would had led to many similar cases violating the First Amendment.
How I see it:
I think that what Jeffery Heffernan was doing was completely protected under the First Amendment and firing someone for carrying a lawn sign supporting the opposing candidate that you dislike is completely violating the First Amendment and makes protected Speech unprotected. ]]> 2017-04-18 11:57:06 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166725796 J.P. Kurlich (12) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166725842 Assembly
February 4th, 2017, National Review
http://www.nationalreview.com/article/444596/berkeley-riots-sedition-laws
What's happening?
At the University of California at Berkeley, students engaged in a violent riot. These activist students were not prosecuted and were largely left unchallenged despite the damage they did to property and person. This being only the first of a series of riots at Berkeley is a demonstration that people no longer fear the consequences of their actions.
Why is this happening?
Law enforcement is refusing to handle the situation and ones similar to it. Rather than making proper arrests, the students are allowed to continue rioting. The entire situation in this specific case was started when some students were outraged that a conservative speaker, Milo Yiannopoulos, was arranged to give a talk.
Effect on freedom of assembly:
The freedom to assemble is being equated with rioting. As people are more enraged by the riots, they end up against assemblies altogether. What could have been a viable peaceful protest was turned into a precedent for terrible riots. The twisting of this freedom into a destructive force will only destroy the true freedom of assembly as legislatures are forced to act.
How I See It:
Violent riots, no matter the cause, must be put down. If force is required so be it. We cannot allow childish groups of people to throw fits and break their play toys. Peaceful assembly is under threat by these destructive rampages, and the damage is only spreading. Once people see that there will be no consequences for riots, more and more riots will occur. It is time that we assemble for the freedom to assemble and do something about the threats to our display of free thought.

]]> 2017-04-18 11:57:24 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166725842 Keaton Modleski (10) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166725886 Speech
March 28, 2017, Reuters
What's Happening?
A former University of New Mexico student wrote an essay demonstrating that she is against lesbians. She was not able to persuade the federal court she was trying to persuade that the school rejected her essay for having anti- lesbian remarks in the essay. The records show that he school eventually refunded the student her tuition.
Why is this happening?
This is happening because the student believes that the school rejected her article that she wrote for her film class because it contained anti-lesbian remarks and she believed that infringed on her freedom of speech.
Effect on Freedom of Speech:
If the school did not accept the student's essay on the fact that it contained anti- lesbian remarks, then that would be violating the freedom of speech which states in the Bill of Rights that written words are protected.
How I See It:
I see this case as being a violation of the freedom of speech if the school rejected the essay just because it contains anti- lesbian remarks because in the Bill of Rights, the first amendment says that all written and spoken words are protected from prosecution. However, if the school has a policy against those remarks in a handbook of some sort that the student should know about, then the school had all the rights in the world to reject the essay that the student wrote.
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-lawsuit-censorship-idUSKBN16Z2RN]]> 2017-04-18 11:57:41 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166725886 Matt Ajdaharian (11) mlajdaharian https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166726158 Speech
Oct 13, 2016, Times
Whats happening?
Universities are restricting students freedom of speech and are not allowing them to voice their opinions outside the "free-speech zones".
Why is this happening?
This is happening because Universities have taught a generation of Americans that if you don't agree with someone, you feel uncomfortable with an idea, or you don't find a joke funny, then their right of freedom of speech should be suppressed.
Effects on freedom to assemble:
With these University rules it doesn't allow the freedom to gather together and protest an idea. This also only allows students to pray in the "Free-speech zones" and any prayer outside these small zones is prohibited.
How I see it:
I think this should not be allowed, even though the students pay to attend the universities and are required to follow the rules this is and un- Constitutional rule and should be stopped immediately. If we didn't allow the people to voice their opinions, society would be terrible. No one would fix our problems because they wouldn't even know what our problems are, since we can't voice them.



]]> 2017-04-18 11:59:17 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166726158 Tristen Pence(13) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166726213 Freedom of Speech
August 31, 2016 U.S. News
What's Happening?
The University of Chicago has brought up the debate over safe safe spaces which are areas where a group of people feel as if they won't be discriminated against or harassed by another group, and from this they state that they do not condone the creation of said places.
Why is this happening?
The idea of safe spaces will restrict some freedoms so that the group they defend will not become exposed to words or actions that would offend said group. The debate concerns how this type of action censors people's freedom of speech.
Effects on freedom of speech:
With these  spaces as mentioned, by creating these areas, the institution limits the people's speech for the protection of others.
How I see it:
While there is a good intention behind the creation of the safe spaces, it also hinders others in one of their rights given to them by the constitution. A majority of the people on a campus may or may not be protected by these safe spaces created. If the majority are not protected, these safe spaces are just a flat out violation of the constitution. If a majority are protected, it is fine to some degree but a harsh comment or two will not affect the directed individual in an extreme way. Over all, these safe spaces are rarely beneficial since they violate our constitution.
https://www.usnews.com/opinion/articles/2016-08-31/university-of-chicago-spotlights-debate-over-safe-spaces-trigger-warnings]]> 2017-04-18 11:59:36 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166726213 Chiara Cradick (14) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166726422 Religion
July 22, 2016, The New York Times
Whats Happening?: Masood Syed was suspended without pay from work at the New York Police Department for refusing to shave his beard during the fasting month of Ramadan. A lawsuit against the police department aims to change the no-beard policy which Masood's lawyers say infringes upon the rights of more than 100 officers who want to practice their religious rights freely.
Why is this Happening?: The police department says that the no-beard policy is for the protection of the officers during an emergency when a gas mask is needed and is only excused for officers whose faith requires beards or officers with medical conditions as long as the beard is less than one millimeter in length. The Department, however, has repeatedly told several officers that they must shave their beards that are worn for religious reasons. The Department has even fired officers for refusing to shave their beards in observance of their faith.
Effect on Freedom of Religion: By instituting a no-beard policy and failing to accommodate officers who grow beards in observance of their faith, the police department has violated the Free Exercise Clause. The Free Exercise Clause prevents the Government from stopping the practice of any particular religion. Growing a beard is part of Masood's religion.
How I See it: I see this issue as a violation of the freedom of religion and specifically as a violation of the free exercise clause. The New York Police Department cannot force an officer to shave their beard if the beard is worn for religious or medical purposes no matter the length that the beard becomes.
https://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/23/nyregion/muslim-officer-sues-new-york-police-dept-over-no-beard-policy.html?ref=topics&_r=0]]> 2017-04-18 12:01:01 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166726422 Ben Batchelder (15) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166726793 Speech
April 12, 2017, The Collegian
What's happening?
The governor of Colorado signed a bill that will ban free speech zones from colleges. Previously, colleges could restrict students free speech and freedom of expression to just certain designated areas, but with this bill in place, students will have unlimited free speech all over campus.
Why is this happening?
The state was concerned that students were having their free speech restricted by colleges. They wanted to make sure free speech wasn't censored by colleges.
Effect on freedom of speech:
This will make it so that college students will be able to freely speak their minds on campuses without being censored. This law will protect the rights of the college students.
How I see it:
I completely agree with this bill being passed. I think that freedom of speech is a big part of our country, and its a big part of learning as well. We need to be able to debate and learn other opinions so that we can grow as a society. Freedom of speech should never be limited just because some people are afraid of having their feelings hurt.]]> 2017-04-18 12:03:11 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166726793 Kian Shinaver (16) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166726894 Speech
February 21st, 2017, St. Louis Post-Dispatch
What's happening?
William Lacy Clay plans to file a lawsuit stating that the rights of a former St. Louis student, David Pulphus were violated by the Architect of the Capitol. Pulphus had created a controversial painting that depicts the injustice, inequality, and unrest in Ferguson. It also depicts police officers as animals. The painting was taken down by the Architect of the Capitol because it "Depicts police officers as pigs and distorts of the police shooting death of Michael Brown."
Why is this happening?
Critics see the painting as a false depiction of the problems in Ferguson.
Effects on freedom of speech:
The taking down of the painting infringes on the rights of Pulphus. If the painting is not put back up, people will feel like their freedom of expression is not present anymore and they will lose motivation to express themselves.
How I see it:
Personally, I think that this is a violation of Pulphus's rights. I think that this painting is trying to raise awareness about injustice and is not attempting to cause violence. This shows that in the United States it is hard to really voice your opinion without backlash, but that should not discourage people from trying.
http://www.stltoday.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/taking-down-student-painting-violated-st-amendment-clay-claims-in/article_8ab33e1b-3a56-5b77-93fb-45ef7d06b628.html


]]> 2017-04-18 12:03:39 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166726894 Luke Godfrey (18) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166727088 Speech/Assembly
March 15, 2016
What's happening?
Protesters at Trump rallies during his campaign last year were removed from the crowds of people. It started to become so bad that Trump had to cancel one of his rallies in Chicago. One of these protestors was even punched in the face as he was leaving the rally.
Why is this happening?
People against Trump want to speak their mind and believe they have the right to go to these rallies and protest against him.
Effect on freedom of speech/assembly:
By removing and escorting these people from Trump events, it strips them from the right to assemble and the right to have free speech at that particular event. Many protestors insist that what they were doing was peaceful and not disruptive, but in the eyes of police, they were doing harm to others which allowed them to remove the protestors from the event. Through this action by the police, protestors believe their rights were being violated.
How I see it:
I partially agree with the view of how people are being disruptive at these rallies. If someone or a group is being disruptive and harmful to others, then yes, they should be escorted from the event. And in some cases this is the issue. But I believe that in several other cases, people are not being disruptive or harmful and are still being removed for their peaceful protest.


]]> 2017-04-18 12:04:45 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166727088 Angelina Bergsma (17) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166727160 Religion
April 17, 2017, The Telegraph
What's happening?
A Christian prayer writer, Callahan, posted a prayer on the telegraph on April 3rd. Someone wrote a letter to the editor saying that the prayer “’fueled division’” and was directed to Islamic people. The letter also stated that the payers should be censored.
Why is this happening?
People see publicized prayers as ways to target other groups and deem them wrong. 
They think that allowing writings like prayers to be published without censorship can eliminate peace.
Effect on freedom of religion:
People are discouraged to publicly practice their religions. They cannot excercise their religions the way that they should be able to.
How I see it:
The ability to publish prayers without censorship brings more value to the freedom of religion. I think the suggestion to censor prayers before publishing completely imposes on religious freedom. I think this is why many people are afraid to express their religion. 
]]> 2017-04-18 12:05:13 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166727160 Samantha Farrell (19) safarrell https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166727910 Freedom of Religion
February 22, 2017, The New York Times
What is happening?
The muslim group in Michigan City won the right to build a mosque.
Why is this happening?
The Muslim group in Michigan city planned to build a mosque but the city denied the group to do so. Shortly after, the muslim group filed a lawsuit against the city for this denial. In the case the Muslim group claimed that denying access to build a mosque in the city is discrimination against religion and violated the freedom of religion. The city however, claimed that they did this due to zoning problems in the city. The City of Michigan eventually lost the case and the mosque was built with some modified measurements.
Effects on Freedom of Religion:
By not allowing the construction of the mosque, the city denies access and opportunity for people of the muslim religion to worship and participate in religious activities.
How I see it:
In this situation I believe that the city had a good reason to not allow the mosque to be built but on the other hand I believe that denying the ability to construct a mosque infringes upon the freedom of religion. By not allowing a mosque to be built in the city but perhaps allowing other constructions to take place in the future, may make people feel that they are being discriminated against and not given the same number of opportunities to worship as other religions in the area. ]]> 2017-04-18 12:09:50 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166727910 Ellie Farnsworth (20) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166727999 Religion
March 27, 2017, WJCT
What's happening?
A bill was passed to protect the religious freedom of public schools in Florida. The bill is aiming to create the "Florida Student and School Personnel Religious Liberty Acts." The bill stops "a school district from discriminating against students, parents, or school personnel."
Why is this happening?
Florida's Education Department does not have standards for teaching religion, unlike with math and science. However, Florida really wants religion back but they more specifically want Christianity back in their schools.
Effects on Freedom of Religion:
By allowing students to exercise any religion they choose the teachers are instituting the first amendment in a positive way.
How I see it:
While they have the right intentions I do not truly believe they want everyone to practice a religion that is not Christianity. For example, the article said that students could preform satanic rituals and that the teachers would have to keep a close eye on those students and possible stop them if the students go to far. Even though I do think that they should keep an eye on those students if it infringing upon their freedom of religion.

]]> 2017-04-18 12:10:12 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166727999 Wyatt Smith (21) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166728980 Freedom of Speech
January 11, 2017,
Supreme Court
What's happening? 
A child with autism could not be taught well at a public school so he went to a private school and asked the public school to pay for his private school because they could not help him.
Why is this happening?
It happened because the public school system was not strong enough to help this young autistic boy out.
Effects on freedom of speech:
The boy was disabled which because he could have not had a good education it could have handicapped his freedom of speech but court decided it did not violate their laws so the public school would not have to pay for the child's private education.
How I see it:
How i see it is the child should have received money from the public school to pay for his private school because he was going to public school but they could not help him out so they sent him to private school where he was greatly improving. His parents were now paying for both the public school through taxes and private school directly because of the sole purpose that the public school failed the child.
https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/16pdf/15-827_0pm1.pdf]]> 2017-04-18 12:14:27 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166728980 James Maguire (22) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166729364 Freedom of Speech
March 10, 2017, The Indianapolis Star
Whats Happening?
The "Teens for Life Club" at Carmel High School put up a poster in the lunchroom about abortion, but was forced to take it down due to "school rules." This caused a major argument as to whether or not the school was violating the club's first amendment right of free speech.
Why is this happening?
This happened because a student came to the school complaining that the poster was "offensive," causing a major debate to keep it up or take it down.
Effect on Freedom of Speech:
The school violated the club's freedom of religion and freedom of speech laws by telling them they were not allowed to put the poster up in the cafeteria. 
How I See It:
I think the school is at fault here as they were not allowing the club to express their beliefs publicly. They were not trying to offend anyone so they should have been allowed to keep the poster up.

http://www.indystar.com/story/news/2017/03/10/ideological-battle-abortion-erupts-carmel-high-school-cafeteria/99018512/]]> 2017-04-18 12:16:16 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166729364 Kate Stevenson (23) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166785083 Religion
May 4, 2016, The Pulse
What's happening?
In Pensacola, Florida, there is a cross which has been in a public park on city property for over half a century. Recently, non-religious groups have called for it to be removed because it violates the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment.
Why is this happening?
A number of people in a predominantly Christian area argue that the cross unfairly favors Christians and violates the 1st amendment right of those who are not Christian.
Effects on Freedom of religion:
There have been similar court cases like this, and those have typically gone in favor of removing the religious symbol, or sometimes in favor of allowing other religions to add their own symbols. This case has yet to be ruled on, but ruling to keep the cross there by itself would serve to alienate non-Christians and make them think that the government does not truly represent them or respect their religious beliefs.
How I see it:
I think this case is certainly an example of infringing on the rights of non-Christians. Even though private citizens are allowed to worship freely, the government should not decorate government property with a particular religion's religious symbols. The Establishment Clause forbids the government to endorse any religion, and the cross should be removed from the public park to end this unjust endorsement of Christianity.]]> 2017-04-18 15:11:23 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166785083 Evan Smith (24) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166786530 Freedom of Speech
January 20, 2016, Global Freedom of Expression

What's happening?
Taylor Bell, a high school rapper, had accused two of his teachers of having sexual misconduct with female students. The student felt that if he told the administration nothing would happen, so he posted his song to Facebook and youtube to bring more attention to it. The school felt as if Taylor was harassing, intimidating, and threatening teachers. He got suspended, then sent to another school and later filed a lawsuit towards the board, the school’s superintendent, and principal
Why is this happening?
This is happening because the school believes that Taylor Bell is harassing, intimidating, and threatening the school teachers.
Effects on freedom of Speech:
The school is infringing upon the students rights to say what is true and openly put it out there. This will make rappers and schools be very careful about crossing any lines.
How I see It:
I feel that if it is this important of a subject that the student should have addressed a teacher, but he should not have gotten in trouble for telling the truth in a song. I feel as if the school did something wrong by quickly suspending. Especially at a public school where it is most definitely legal.

]]> 2017-04-18 15:15:31 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166786530 Dylan Crossen (25) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166786646 Freedom of Speech
March 28, 2017
Patch.com
What's Happening?
Kevin Shaw, a student at Pierce College in Los Angeles, California was distributing Spanish copies of the US constitution outside of the college's "free speech zone." However, a school official asked him to stop, otherwise Shaw would be removed from the campus. He filed a lawsuit against Woodland Hills community college for policies that restrict student free speech rights to tiny zones on campus and for infringing on his First Amendment rights (speech).
Why is this happening?
The community college does not want to start violent debates, riots, or fights on campus. Therefore, they set "free speech zones" in which Kevin Shaw is against.
Effect on Freedom of Speech
Since the college is not supporting/accepting Kevin Shaw's freedom of expression, they are violating his first amendment rights.
How I see it
I believe that the school is violating Keven Shaw's freedom of speech because he is not allowed to speak and act as he wishes.  Even though they have the "free zones," Kevin wants his voice to be heard and he is acting upon it appropriately. He is peacefully distributing papers and is not harming his peers in any way. He was trying to get students thinking about our founding principles and to inspire discussion of liberty and free speech. This is all supported in the Bill of Rights. Therefore, the school's policies should amended.
https://patch.com/california/woodlandhills/pierce-college-student-sues-over-free-speech-zones]]> 2017-04-18 15:15:56 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166786646 Therese Hinkley (26) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166786933 Freedom of Speech
March 1, 2017, Slate
What's happening?
Several years ago, North Carolina introduced a law prohibiting registered sex offenders from using all "commercial social networking sites". Under this law, any website that a minor could access and included a comments section was forbidden to sex offenders. This case has since then risen into prominence as infringing upon the First Amendment rights of sex offenders to express any opinions online, and even goes as far as to make Google searches illegal for sex offenders.
Why is this happening?
Lester Gerard Packingham Jr. made an innocent Facebook post about five years ago. When the county sheriff spotted it, however, he was arrested and jailed for the use of a social media network. North Carolina lawmakers intend for the law to protect children from online predators, but it has been taken so far as to nearly limit sex offenders access to the internet altogether.
Effects on freedom of Speech:
This law prohibits sex offenders from exercising any freedom of speech online and keeps them from using any website or network with the remote potential of contacting another person.
How I see It:
Although sex offenders have made a terrible mistake in their lives, they are still people. Despite their mistakes, all people deserve to have their First Amendment rights protected. I think that sex offenders should have rights to make online profiles, and that restrictions should be on communicating with minors electronically.]]> 2017-04-18 15:16:46 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166786933 Sam Lewandowski (27) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166787059 Freedom of press
April 18, 2017, teleSUR
What's Happening?
Today, another Mexican reporter was found dead, the 5th in the last 7 weeks. The man, Juan Jose Roldan, was a reporter who previously worked for a local TV station and newspaper. Also, Roldan is an activist with the LGBTQ and a freelance reporter. Roldan was assumed to be tortured by the way his body was found. It is also assumed that he was killed based on his beliefs in the LGBTQ rights.
Why is this happening?
This is happening because some people in Mexico get really fired up when an opposing article is sent out and these reporters and journalists become criminals to them because what the reporters think is a threat to the way the people live their daily lives.
Effects on freedom of press:
 I think this onslaught will affect what reporters say and do in the near future. This will restrict what is said in papers, news stations, and blogs in the Mexican area.
How I see it:
These extremist people will and have made their threat known to any reporter or journalist that if they post something in the opposing viewpoint, that they will be hunted down. I definitely do feel that these people are taking it way too far. Killing someone based on their opinion? That is just pathetic. When people act like this to change, it is a thought as if they are being threatened by something that will ruin their lives. It will definitely change some aspects of their life, but it will surely not alter their entire life. In conclusion, I do agree with these people that the LGBTQ rights are morally wrong, but I do not agree with the way these people are responding to it.
http://www.telesurtv.net/english/news/War-on-Press-Rages-on-5th-Mexican-Journalist-Killed-in-7-Weeks-20170418-0007.html]]> 2017-04-18 15:17:14 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166787059 Andrew Horton (28) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166788306 Freedom of Speech
April 17, 2017, Burlington Free Press
What's Happening?
On March 2, students at Middlebury College shouted down guest speaker, Charles Murray. Similar events like this at other , where students are shouting over someone else's speech, have students and faculty debating the definition of free speech.
Why is this happening?

Effects of Freedom of Speech:

How I see it...

]]> 2017-04-18 15:20:52 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166788306 aghorton https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166997106 2017-04-19 13:07:36 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166997106 Andrew Horton (28) aghorton https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166998106 Freedom of Speech
April 17, 2017, Burlington Free Press
What's Happening?
On March 2, students at Middlebury College interrupted guest speaker, Charles Murray, in a protest against racism. Similar events like this at other , where students are interrupting someone else's speech in protest. These events have students and faculty debating the definition of free speech.
Why is this happening?
This is happening because of the ignorance students have when it comes to free speech and when protest is acceptable. In terms of the events at Middlebury College, the students were carelessly interrupting someone else's speech for an arrogant protest.
Effects on Freedom of Speech:
I think the events Middlebury and similar events at other universities and colleges will have faculty and students correct their use of free speech in an acceptable manor that does not disrespect someone else's presentation or speech, like what is being seen.
How I see it...
I feel that these acts of protest and free speech were ignorant and arrogant in the lines of disrespecting and offending the guest speaker Charles Murray. I do think this event will help educate college students on acceptable free speech in line with the First Amendment. ]]> 2017-04-19 13:10:49 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/166998106 Ross Williams (29) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/167164634 Freedom of Press
February 25, 2017
What's happening?
The author of this opinion piece is expressing his stance that President Trump trying to disallow anonymous sources is equivalent to other countries (Turkey) who have imprisoned and stifled their journalists. They are also trying to prove the point that there are instances when anonymous sources are needed for the protection of their lives. The major theme of the article is that President Trump is trying to use his supporters to become even more anti media for their mainly  democratic stances.


Why is this happening?

Since the campaign started, President Trump has been in a battle with the mainstream media over what is considered "fake news". Journalists are stating that repressing how stories are reported is the same as restricting the information that is passed along to the population (i.e China internet censorship) and that it violates freedom of the press.


Effects on Freedom of Speech

Stifling the free press is not good for Freedom of Speech. However, the media should also not have the right to print misleading and half true information in order to sway to their agenda or their perceived readership/viewership Care and balance should be taken to maintain a free press that is responsible and true in its reporting of only facts, and not inflamatory opinions.

My View

I can see both sides of the argument quite frankly. While I do agree that the mainstream media leans liberal, there are instances when for safety reasons, sources should remain anonymous . But when it comes to matters of opinion or National Security, the country and its population should come first. I also feel that in todays 24 hour news cycle, and instant news media on Twitter, etc, that many times stories are run without all the facts and that opinions are shaped and formed carelessly by the media. There should be a careful  balance in order to preserve the First Amendment freedom of the press rights on which this country was founded.


/www.nytimes.com/2017/02/25/opinion/trump-is-damaging-press-freedom-in-the-us-and-abroad.html?rref=collection%2Ftimestopic%2FFreedom%20of%20The%20Press&action=click&contentCollection=timestopics&region=stream&module=stream_unit&version=latest&contentPlacement=5&pgtype=collection]]> 2017-04-20 02:23:20 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/167164634 Augie #30 https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/167317025 Freedom of Press
February 24, 2017
What's Happening?:
President Trump has been quite a burden on the press since he's been in office. Essentially, he has been keeping certain journalists out of some conferences, as well as directly pointing out some of the journalists he finds controversial.
Why is this happening?:
The press has been a problem for some ever since it was a thing. This is very true for the current President of the U.S.A. President Trump has no doubt said many controversial things in his short time in office. The problem occurs when either the press doesn't report what Trump wants, or the press reports something inaccurate. Either way it causes turmoil between the two parties.
Effect on Freedom of Press:
This happening has had a rather important effect of the freedom of press. Although most people don't seem to think this, it has had a very direct effect. This situation has kept some news stations from reporting, effectively eliminating their freedom of press.
How I see it:
I personally don't quite understand how this hasn't gotten more attention. This is a very direct violation of press. Whether or not it's just Trump not wanting things reported the way they are, or the way the reporters may be misconstruing words doesn't matter. This is a problem that needs to be brought to more people's attention.


https://www.nytimes.com/2017/02/24/us/politics/white-house-sean-spicer-briefing.html

]]> 2017-04-20 16:28:47 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/167317025 Emma Cunningham (31) Speech https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/167385042 April 19, 2017, CNN
What's Happening?:  Students at Auburn are protesting against a speaker named Richard Spencer. Richard Spencer is a white nationalist who spent $700 to hire security and to speak.
Why is this happening?: The topics that Richard Spencer spoke about were controversial. There were also equal amounts of supporters and protesters that have been arguing against each other.
Effect on Freedom of speech: The protestors are not violating the freedom of speech because they are speaking their opinions around the campus. The main effect that is starting up is the dispute between the protestors and the supporters. Violence is starting to occur on the campus.  Two people were arrested for a fistfight and three people were arrested during a peaceful protest.
How I see it: The protestors have the right to protest around their campus and they should not be punished for speaking their opinions. I also think that the violence should stay at a minimum and that the arguments should not get too intense.
http://www.cnn.com/2017/04/18/politics/auburn-richard-spencer-protests/]]> 2017-04-20 21:39:49 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/167385042 Jack Gorsage (34) jmgorsage https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/167407310 Freedom of Religion
April 20, 2017
Los Angeles Times
What's Happening?
After being denied government funding to renovate it's playground to make it safer due to religious affiliation, Trinity Lutheran Church in Columbia, MO has filed a lawsuit claiming that their religious rights are being infringed upon by the state of Missouri.
Why is this happening?
Trinity Lutheran Church was denied funding because Missouri's constitution forbids the expenditure of state funds in aid of any church, sect, or denomination of religion.  Only nonreligious organizations are eligible for the grants.
Effect on Freedom of Religion:
By denying Trinity Lutheran Church state funds, the state of Missouri is discriminating against a religious institution. Missouri's refusal to consider the application is a clear burden on a constitutional right.
How I see it:
I believe that Trinity Lutheran Church should not have been denied state funds to renovate it's playground. The allocated funds were only to be used to make the playground safer. Religion should have no factor in the determination whether the organization, church, or school should receive funds. By using religion as a determining factor, Missouri is clearly discriminating against the church and violating constitutional rights.
http://www.latimes.com/opinion/editorials/la-ed-scotus-playground-20170420-story.html]]> 2017-04-21 02:31:13 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/167407310 Merritt Stults (32) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/167409521 Freedom of Religion
November 15, 2016
Stanford Law School Press
What's Happening?
Recently, the Religious Liberty Clinic at Stanford Law School reached a settlement with the trucking company J.B. Hunt that will allow Sikh truckers to keep their hair long in accordance with their religious law. Several Sikh truckers also received financial compensation for this victory.
Why is this happening?
Previously, this company required its applicants and drivers to provide a hair sample for drug testing. Sikh tradition requires that observers (both male and female) wear their hair long; it is very important to them. Coupled with the fact that other drug-testing methods are available, the Sikh employees saw this mandatory hair cutting as unconstitutional. Thus, the issue was taken to court and the Sikhs won.
Effects on Freedom of Religion:
The discrimination these people experienced under this company was unconstitutional, and forced these Sikhs to commit sacreligious acts. Now that the matter is resolved, this trucking company is  operating within the Constitution and is protecting the First Amendment rights of its workers.
How I see it: I am very pleased that theses Sikh truckers won this case. Many people do not know much about Sikhism, and as a result many of their religious observances have been suppressed or discriminated against. For example, I knew a Sikh girl who was forced to remove her iron bangle in gym class, despite the fact that they are not supposed to remove the bracelet. It was very disheartening to me to see someone receive this treatment. I'm happy that it is becoming easier for all people of faith to participate in their religion in the US, just as Christians do.

https://law.stanford.edu/press/stanford-clinic-vindicates-religious-freedom-for-sikh-clients/]]> 2017-04-21 02:57:37 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/167409521 Lauren Crisci (33) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/167410280 Freedom of Religion
January16th 2017
Huffington Post
Whats happening?
Extremist Muslims in the middle east want to ban Christmas because the birth of Jesus is seen as something that should not be celebrated. If they want to ,completely get rid of the holiday, they will have to murder all the Christians, and they aren't afraid to do so.
Why is this happening?
This is happening because muslim extremists do not want any Christians in their territory, let alone anyone celebrating Christmas.
Effects on Freedom:
This act against Christians is completely destroying the right to religious freedom. No freedom is being permitted in this circumstance.
How I see it:
I recognize that it is not all islam people who are against Christians and the practice of Christmas. It is only extremists who are so against the Christian faith who want to be destroyed. Everyone should get the chance for religious freedom, especially those who experience persecution.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/doug-bandow/needed-a-tolerant-islam-w_b_14204230.html]]> 2017-04-21 03:09:27 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/167410280 Nathaniel Brooks (35) nbbrooks https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/167536863 Freedom of Religion
August 25, 2016 The Kansas City Star
What’s Happening
Kansas City officials was going to hand out $65,000 to Rev. John Modest Wiles’, a Baptist Minister, non profit organization to help him manage travel arrangements at a Baptist Convention in Kansas City under a tourism bill.
Atheists in the city claim the city is promoting Religion by providing funds to a Religious Convention using public tax dollars, while Rev. Wiles claims it will be bringing in business and economic support to the city, fufiling the requirements. The city told the courts that while yes that had been going give Rev. Wiles support, it was for his non-profit organization, not a religious entity, and that they had asked for assurance that the money would be used for a secular cause.
Other Baptists feel that they are being singled out and attacked.
Why is happening?
Atheists living in Kansas City feel that the Missouri constitution is being violated by providing funds to a religious event. Wiles claims that they are targeting 
Effect on Freedom?
The separation on Church and state will continue. Money will no longer be used to support any Religious conventions or gatherings, and any monetary support of churches will cease. 
My View
While I do not like the fact that Religious people, even those of different denomination, lost, I understand the need for separation of Church and State. Bad things have happened with out the separation of Church and state. I also feel that by not supporting the Christians, the Government supports the atheists, but there is no good way out for the government without looking bad to one side or the other.
http://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article97808987.html 
]]> 2017-04-21 16:40:41 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/167536863 Sam Brown (36) https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/167599889 Freedom of Speech
April 21, 2017 The New York Times
What's Happening?
A Speech by Ann Coulter was cancelled by the University of California Berkley. The supporters of Coulter saw this as the university trying to silence opinions that defer from the values and opinions of Cal. This has become more frequent this year and even more after the inauguration of President Trump.
Why is this happening?
This is occurring because the demographic of the University of California Berkley is primarily a democratic population and avid republicans see the school as a target that can be swayed. The college is stuck between the interest of its own students and the first amendment.
Effect on Freedom:
the republicans see this as a violation of their freedom. They feel they are being silenced by democrats.
How I see it:
I see this as a clear violation of the first amendment. But I can see why the school is doing it. Cal was founded on democratic values and wants to protect what makes Cal, Cal.
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/04/21/us/berkeley-ann-coulter-speech.html?_r=0]]> 2017-04-22 02:23:07 UTC https://padlet.com/sganser/aet7x8eo6var/wish/167599889