Free speech or Not Free speech- that is the Question essays

Free speech or Not Free speech- that is the Question essays Free speech or Not Free speech- that is the Question 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. In the United States of America we are gifted with twenty seven amendments. The first of these inherent rights is freedom of speech. Such gifts deserve to be treated with responsibility and gratitude by citizens who appreciate its benefits. However, some people abuse this right when they use sexual, racist, and prejudicial slurs addressing others with hurtful words such as fag and bitch,Unfortunately, such degrading terms are now commonly used in our society (Hate). These very people who claim first amendment rights for racial and sexual epithets are abusing and disrespecting it. The abusers of the First Amendment harm innocent citizens. Bullying,, specifically verbal bullying, is widespread in American schools. Statistics show more than 29 percent of O.S. school children state that they had been bullied (Bullying). This creates an intimidating and hostile environment for the student. As awareness of harassment, intimidation and hate in the school setting has grown, state legis latures have begun to address this problem as well. At least 16 states have passed anti-bullying laws, and similar measures were considered in 23 states in the 2001-2002 legislative sessions. Currently, 14 legislatures are considering bills that address the issue of bullying (Tackling). It is not enough, for only 16 states have these laws in place. Each state in this country needs to have anti-harrasment laws. As I will demonstrate here, it is necessary and critical that each state has anti-bullying laws in place. The dilemma is when these laws may be in conflict with first amendment rights. ...