The First Amendment: One of the Best Rights Given to Us

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.


The First Amendment is one of the best rights given to us by the Constitution. 1A gives us freedom of speech, press, religion, assembly and petition. This is very important to journalist because of the two; freedom of press and freedom of speech. This Amendment protects journalists and gives them the right to say what they want and publish whatever they feel the need to publish. However, it must be truth behind it. The citizens have the right to know what is going on around them and journalists and the press are the ones they rely on to deliver the information.

    There are some exceptions with the First Amendment, that I do agree with. As a collegiate photojournalists student, I am free to print expressions and say how I feel, however I cannot print libel, threatening or disruptive content. Also whenever publishing material it must be true, if material is published knowing that it is false information, journalists can later face consequences for those actions.

    I have learned that there have been many occasions where police or public officials may violate The First Amendment, by trying to stop freedom of expression. Fortunately, if you know your rights, then you are protected. Some try to prevent journalists from speaking or expressing how they feel, in some cases to save themselves. But always remember you are always protected by the First Amendment, so feel free to express, publish, write, or say how you feel on any topic or matter. Use the First Amendment to the best of your ability but also make sure you have knowledge on the “do’s” and “dont’s" within The First Amendment.