Free speech
We work to ensure that advocates are free to express themselves and support issues that matter to them without the fear of reprisal. We’ve also got the backs of journalists who face pushback from the government as a result of their work to hold politicians accountable and to increase government transparency.
The Issue at a glance: A right to privacy and speech
Every American has the constitutional right to support issues they believe in without fear of harassment or retaliation. But across the United States, politicians are working overtime to silence those who seek to hold them accountable or those who hold points of view different from their own. To scare Americans into staying silent, politicians are enacting laws aimed at publicizing their advocacy, called “disclosure laws.”
By naming and shaming individuals who support different viewpoints, these laws effectively prevent everyday Americans from speaking out to advance causes they believe in. We won’t let these crucial First Amendment rights be trampled on.
Our victories
Companies bidding for Montana’s state contracts were required to disclose political donations made within 60 days of an election – a clear tool of economic retribution against the supporters of political opponents. Our lawsuit led to this being struck down in February 2021.
In New Jersey, advocacy organizations were forced to give the government private information about the people who support their efforts – a law designed to allow opponents of advocacy groups to intimidate and harass the organizations’ supporters. In March 2020, we succeeded in having this provision blocked.
What’s Next?
Liberty Justice Center is currently working with advocates in New Mexico, Illinois, and other states to strike down unfair “disclosure” laws.
Having a voice means more than just talking
Liberty Justice Center is on the front lines of fighting to protect your free speech rights. Our attorneys already are challenging so-called “disclosure” requirements in New Mexico, Rhode Island, New Jersey and Montana. We’ve also got the backs of journalists who face pushback from the government as a result of their work to hold politicians accountable and to increase government transparency.
Resources
Alaska lawsuit challenges new donor disclosure requirements – NBC Anchorage
Donors have sued over campaign finance rules enacted under a 2020 voter initiative, arguing the disclosure rules are burdensome and could lead to reprisals against them and their business interests in a climate of “cancel culture.”
Read more...Lawsuit challenges Alaska campaign disclosure rules – Associated Press
Donors have sued over campaign finance rules enacted under a 2020 voter initiative, arguing the disclosure rules are burdensome and could lead to reprisals against them and their business interests in a climate of “cancel culture.”
Read more...Alaska state officials face federal lawsuit over new requirements that violate free speech, privacy rights
Two citizen advocacy groups and four Alaskans filed a federal lawsuit, Smith v. Helzer, to stop Ballot Measure 2, which has the most anti-privacy election laws in the country.
Read more...New York teacher unjustly suspended returns to the classroom with help from the Liberty Justice Center
A teacher who was placed on leave for recommending a video which encouraged young people to do their best and not to depend on others, is returning to her teaching role after help from the Liberty Justice Center.
Read more...View All Resources
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