First Amendment Rights

Freedom of speech, of the press, of association, of assembly and petition -- this set of guarantees, protected by the First Amendment, comprises what we refer to as freedom of expression.

First Amendment Rights

What you need to know

2005

We won the Kitzmiller v. Dover Area School District case, that ruled teaching Intelligent Design Creationism as an alternative to evolution in public schools was unconstitutional.

Freedom of speech, of the press, of association, of assembly and petition -- this set of guarantees, protected by the First Amendment, comprises what we refer to as freedom of expression.

The ACLU works to make sure that all speech - even messages we vehemently disagree with - has a chance to be heard. We protect the right to leaflet and demonstrate on government property, sidewalks, and parks throughout the state. We oppose spying by federal and local agencies on groups and individuals based on their lawful political and religious beliefs, practices, and associations.


The Latest

Press Release
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ACLU of Pennsylvania Announces Lawsuit After DHS Ignores FOIA Request Regarding “Unmasking” Subpoenas

In February of this year, the ACLU of Pennsylvania submitted a request to ICE under the Freedom Of Information Act, seeking records of unmasking subpoenas from 2024 to the present. ICE did not respond to our request, nor did they confirm receipt, despite a statutory obligation to do so.
Court Cases: Doe v. DHS, J Doe v. DHS
Press Release
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ACLU-PA Reaches Settlement With Upper Pottsgrove Township Over Meritless “SLAPP” Lawsuit

As part of the settlement, the township has agreed to cover Mr. Murray’s legal fees and ensure that future township managers go through formal training to understand Pennsylvania’s Right-to-Know law.
Issue Areas: First Amendment Rights
Press Release
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ACLU of Pennsylvania Statement on Quakertown Student Arrests

The ACLU of Pennsylvania is in touch with the student demonstrators. We’re calling for a full and transparent investigation of this incident and for the police and Chief McElree to be held accountable for their actions if the evidence confirms the apparent excessive force, retaliation and false arrest.
News & Commentary
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How to fight back when the federal government tries to silence you online

The freedom to openly criticize the government without penalty or punishment is the keystone of our democracy. Free and spirited debate helps inform voters and keeps our elected officials accountable to their oath of office to serve the people and defend the Constitution. 
Legislation
May 28, 2025

SB 790 | Limiting right to know requests from repeat requesters

Position: Oppose
Legislation
May 06, 2025

SB 127 | Adopting IHRA definition of antisemitism in PA Holocaust education requirements

Position: Oppose
Legislation
May 06, 2025

SB 10 | Private school vouchers

Position: Oppose
Legislation
Jun 24, 2024

SB 1260 | Stand with Israel Act

Position: Oppose