The First Two Amendments
What do they cover?
Freedom of Press
Limitations
The press is not allowed to invade your privacy because that would be disobeying Amendment Four. If the press posts something libelous they can get sued because libel is illegal. No censorship from the government on things that go in the news or the internet.
Current Event + My Opinion
Recently, the House of Representatives have passed a bill that protects reporters from going to jail for not telling their sources. I think this is fair because by telling there sources that gives secrets away to rivals.
In the Past
In other countries currently and in the past the press was restricted to some areas or subjects and in some countries the article or piece had to be looked over by the government.
Freedom of Religion
Practice of Religion
All Americans have the right to have any religion or spirituality or none at all.
Current Event + My Opinion
Recently in other countries and here muslims have been made fun of and exclude and bullied. I think this is mean and unfair.
In the Past
In some countries only certain religions were allowed but America wanted all religions to be allowed so that is why we have freedom of religion.
Freedom to Assemble
Meetings
A group of people are allowed to make assemblies and demonstrations. They can hand out brochures, flyers, and advertise what they believe in. But before holding a meeting they must acquire a permit.
Current Event + My Opinion
Recently because of a trespass bill a woman was arrested for voicing her opinion in front of the White House. She was trying to make a demonstration and was arrested. I think this bill is cruel and unfair because the woman was doing something that she is allowed because it was one of her rights.
In the Past
In the past when we were ruled by the British they had very strict rules and if they had found out about the constitutional conventions they would have tried to stop them. That is probably why they were kept a secret and also because the press might have made people have different opinions.
Freedom of Speech
Yes and No's
Prohibits slander also known as lies that hurt a person's reputation. Americans are allowed to criticize government officials but if they say to kill or hurt that official and someone does it they may be held responsible. Prohibits from being allowed to give away information that can hurt the nation.
Current Event + My Opinion
Recently a bunch of kids were giving out religious gifts and saying motivational and happy religious things around christmas time at a public school and they had to stop because the teachers forced them to. So they took them to court on whether or not the teachers could be sued for this. The justices denied the review over the the students message. I think the students should be allowed to give and say what they want religious or not its the thought that counts.
In the Past
People in Britain weren't allowed to criticize the king or they would be punished so America allowed us to have free speech.
Right To Petition
Write, Sign, and Present!
People are allowed to write, sign, present them, and mail in petitions.
Current Event + My Opinion
Recently people have been petitioning abortions. Many people like having it legal some don't like having it legal. I think it should stay legal because it should be your choice whether or not you want a kid.
In the Past
In the past apposing the British government resulted in serious punishments and sometimes even death.
Amendment Two The Right To Bear Arms
The Right To Bear Arms
This gives you permission to own a weapon or gun.
Current Event + My Opinion
Recently people have been arguing on whether or not they should be able to have RPGs and nuclear weapons. I think that these people are ridiculous and the reason America gave weapons to us was to protect ourselves. When will we ever need to use an RPG to protect ourselves? Well, what if a army is chasing after you, you might ask? Well number one I highly doubt that is going to happen. And if it does you are allowed to own assault rifles and snipers.
In The Past
In the past the British wouldn't let us have guns because they didn't want a revolution. We allow the citizens of America to have guns so they can defend themselves and if America becomes a monarchy they will be able to revolt.