Freedom of speech is a human right and a fundamental American freedom. It’s essential for democracy, scientific progress, artistic expression, social justice, peace, and each individual’s ability to live authentically.
At FIRE, we believe free speech is a force for good and have been defending free speech since 1999.
We also know free speech is under threat.
FIRE’s vision is an America in which people overwhelmingly believe in the right of others to freely express views different from their own, and expect their laws and educational institutions to reflect and teach this belief.
Arguments for freedom: The many reasons why free speech is essential
If you face retaliation over protected speech, reach out to FIRE to learn more about how we can protect your rights.
I have been harassed, trespassed, handcuffed and arrested countless times for peacefully exercising my First Amendment rights. My intention is to ensure that all Americans from the wealthiest millionaire to the poorest homeless person can exercise these rights without fear of consequence from our government.
Jeff Gray, a U.S. Army veteran and retired truck driver, has been repeatedly stopped, detained, searched, and arrested by the police. His alleged crime? Holding signs — in front of city halls across the United States. FIRE filed three lawsuits on his behalf to vindicate his constitutional rights and won them all!
WATCH "MIGHTY IRA" DOCUMENTARY TRAILER
Amid high-profile controversies surrounding free speech and racial equality, former ACLU Executive Director Ira Glasser reflects on his life at the forefront of defending the rights of all Americans.
Learn more about your free speech rights in FIRE's research library.
Nothing is more powerful than being honest and open with people, and we’re standing up for our First Amendment rights that give us that voice.
Daraius Dubash was arrested and handcuffed for two hours after peacefully demonstrating in a public park. The Law & Religion Clinic at the University of Texas and FIRE are suing to protect the constitutional right to speak freely in public parks.
The largest report of its kind, the rankings draw from more than 58,000 student responses representing more than 250 colleges and universities nationwide and are designed to help parents and prospective students choose the right school.
| Rank | School | Overall | Speech Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Virginia Public | 73.41/100 | Green |
| 2 | Michigan Technological University Public | 73.15/100 | Green |
| 3 | Florida State University Public | 72.46/100 | Green |
| 4 | Eastern Kentucky University Public | 69.60/100 | Green |
| 5 | Georgia Institute of Technology Public | 69.39/100 | Green |
| 6 | Claremont McKenna College Private | 69.15/100 | Green |
| 7 | North Carolina State University - Raleigh Public | 68.44/100 | Green |
| 8 | Oregon State University Public | 67.26/100 | Green |
| 9 | University of North Carolina - Charlotte Public | 66.51/100 | Green |
| 10 | Mississippi State University Public | 66.14/100 | Green |
FIRE defends and sustains the individual rights of all Americans to free speech and free thought — the essential qualities of liberty — and carries out this mission through several core services.
Facing censorship or retaliation for protected speech? FIRE lawyers are here to help you when your free speech rights are violated.
FIRE’s signature, core defense program provides free, non-legal assistance to individuals whose fundamental civil liberties are violated.
FIRE’s College Policy Reform team works to proactively and systematically challenge campus policies that violate the free speech rights of students and faculty.
FIRE advocates on behalf of legislation that will protect First Amendment rights, and against bills that would abridge those rights.
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