The First Amendment to the Constitution was passed in 1791. It states that “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.” To summarize that up, Congress must not interfere with freedom of religion, speech or press, assembly, and petition. …showed first 75 words of 528 total…

…showed last 75 words of 528 total…amendment rights. The government may also, generally, not compel individuals to express themselves, hold certain beliefs, or belong to particular associations or groups. The right to petition the government for a redress of grievances guarantees people the right to ask the government to provide relief for a wrong through the courts (litigation) or other governmental action. It works with the right of assembly to allow people to join together to seek change from the government.