What is one right protected by the First Amendment?

The First Amendment of the United States Constitution is fundamentally about protecting various forms of expression and the rights that facilitate a free society. One of the most significant protections outlined in this amendment is freedom of speech. This right allows individuals to express their ideas, opinions, and beliefs without government interference or censorship. It is critical to the functioning of democracy, as it supports open discourse, the exchange of ideas, and the ability to challenge governmental policies.

Freedom of speech not only includes spoken and written communication but also extends to symbolic speech and expressions of various kinds. This right ensures that individuals can engage in discussions about political issues, criticize the government, and advocate for changes in society. Such protections are vital for the plurality of voices that must exist in a democratic society to foster debate and progress.

The other choices relate to rights that are protected in different amendments or through judicial interpretations rather than directly by the First Amendment.