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.
National Constitution Center President and CEO Jeffrey Rosen and Associate Justice Elena Kagan discuss the First Amendment and how the Supreme Court, legal scholars, and citizens have interpreted it over time.
Watch the second part of our video introducing the First Amendment, featuring National Constitution Center President and CEO Jeffrey Rosen and Associate Justice Elena Kagan.
Where does the Constitution draw the line between separation of church and state?
Explore ModuleWhat does it mean to prohibit the “free exercise” of religion?
Explore ModuleWhen and why can the government limit speech—and when can’t it?
Explore ModuleHow can you assert your rights to freedom of assembly and petition?
Explore Module
Coming soon for this provision! Until then, you can use Writing Rights to explore key historical documents, early drafts and major proposals behind each provision, and discover how the drafters deliberated, agreed and disagreed, on the path to compromise and the final text.
Explore our new 15-unit core curriculum with educational videos, primary texts, and more.
Search and browse videos, podcasts, and blog posts on constitutional topics.
Discover primary texts and historical documents that span American history and have shaped the American constitutional tradition.
