Free Speech
Protecting the freedom of speech guaranteed by the First Amendment has always been in the forefront of the ACLU’s mission. The ACLU of Rhode Island was founded 60 years ago largely in response to widespread government efforts to censor books, films, and theater. Today, the ACLU routinely defends the right of citizens to exercise their freedom of speech, of the press, of association, and of petition and protest, no matter how unpopular their opinions may be.
Free Speech Related Court Cases
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2021: DiPaola v. Portsmouth
- Category: Active Case Free Speech Right to Petition & Protest
About this Case:
This is a federal lawsuit challenging a Portsmouth town ordinance that bans the posting of political signs on residential property.Current Status:
Filed in January 2021.Attorney:
Richard A. SinapiPhotos:
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Supporting Documents
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2020: Blanchette v. Narragansett
- Category: Active Case Criminal Justice Free Speech Police Practices Students' Rights Youth Rights
About this Case:
This is a lawsuit in federal court seeking monetary damages on behalf of a former Narragansett High School student with special education needs who was thrown to the ground, choked and falsely arrested by a school resource officer (SRO). A video of the incident is available here.Current Status:
Lawsuit filed in May 2020.ACLU of RI Cooperating Attorney:
Amato A. DeLuca-
Supporting Documents