The Arizona state legislature continues to consider a bill that would drastically curtail LGBTQ-themed education and discussion in the state’s K-12 schools. Despite already being vetoed once by Governor Doug Ducey due to its obvious First Amendment problems, the proposed law has been brought back by its legislative sponsor. If passed, the law would squelch important and timely expression in educational institutions throughout the state.
New Case Tests Bounds of Professor’s Classroom Speech Rights
Nicholas Meriwether, a political philosophy professor at Shawnee State University, sued the institution after he was investigated for refusing to refer to a student by her preferred gender pronouns. The professor claims that doing so would go against his religious beliefs, and sued the school on First Amendment grounds.
Teacher Guide: Hate Speech In America
Although many countries across the globe have laws prohibiting hate speech, the United States protects offensive speech about certain groups that historically have been subject to discrimination. This guide explores the First Amendment issues that arise from attempting to regulate hate speech. The guide also goes into existing limitations on expression, including incitement to imminent lawless action, fighting words, true threats, and harassment.
Public Library in Texas Town Cancels Speaking Event with Trans Author
A public library in Leander, Texas canceled an event involving Lilah Sturges, a trans woman and graphic novelist, after city […]
Teacher Sues Indiana School District For Free Speech Violations Over Its Transgender Student Policy
A music teacher filed a suit in federal court in Indiana after disagreeing with a school district policy requiring teachers […]
Supreme Court Readies to Hear Free Speech Argument on Wedding Cake Case
It has been five years since Jack Phillips said he would not bake a cake the wedding celebration for David Mullins and Charlie Craig. They filed suit arguing that Phillips demeaned them while Phillips says he has a right under the First Amendment to free expression and the government cannot compel him otherwise. This fall, the Supreme Court will hear Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission, No. 16-111.