Free Speech & Censorship

A group of protesters with blank signs

The First Amendment protects individuals’ right to free speech and expression regardless of the popularity of the viewpoint. Free speech is vital to a vibrant democracy. ACLU-TN has long championed individuals’ right to speak, read, publish and protest freely, without fear of censorship.

The Latest


Press Release
A red and grayscale collage of a mouth, megaphone, and protest sign, all symbolically representing free speech.

ACLU-TN Asks Federal Court to Hold City of Memphis Accountable for Police Response to “No Kings” Event

Motion Seeks Hearing Over Alleged Violations of Longstanding Kendrick Consent Decree Protecting First Amendment Activity
Press Release
A red and grayscale collage of a mouth, megaphone, and protest sign, all symbolically representing free speech.

New Filings Detail Disturbing Accounts of Federal Agents Retaliating Against Memphis Residents

Residents describe being surveilled at home, pulled over under false pretenses, boxed in with vehicles, and jailed in retaliation for observing and documenting Memphis Safe Task Force activity
Press Release
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Tennessee Voters Sue to Block Redrawn Congressional Map that Discriminates Against and Silences Black Memphians

Federal Lawsuit Aims to Halt Map Before August Primary
Press Release
A red and grayscale collage of a mouth, megaphone, and protest sign, all symbolically representing free speech.

ACLU-TN Receives a Response from the City of Memphis to Formal Demand Letter

Cases, Campaigns & Legislation


Legislation
Mar 17, 2025

FREE THE BOOKS: Support the Freedom to Read Act in Tennessee

Status: Lost: bill did not pass
Position: Support
Legislation
Mar 11, 2024

Protect Tennessee schools from harmful censorship lawsuits.

Allows any parent with a child eligible to attend a school operated by a local LEA or public charter school to sue the LEA or charter school, if they believe they aren’t enforcing Public Chapter 744, a 2022 law aimed at censoring and restricting students from learning about race and gender in school
Position: Oppose
Legislation
Feb 12, 2024

Oppose the flag ban and defend free speech.

SB 1722/HB 1605 would ban the display of most flags in public schools, particularly targeting flags that promote an “agenda,” such as Black Lives Matter flags or Pride flags.
Position: Oppose