Free expression assignment PDF

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Holland Ackerman! Dr. Gabler! Pol Sci 24! March 30, 2019! Texas Vs. Johnson was a case decided by the Supreme Court on June 21, 1989. Johnson was arrested for burning the American flag in order to protest the Reagan Administration. This violated a Texas law that banned the desecration of the flag. Johnson appealed to the court arguing that this violated his free speech and the right to free expression. The court agreed with Johnson, saying that his actions were a symbolic expression of his political dissatisfaction. They also ruled that just because society is disturbed by an action, doesn’t mean that it is illegal. I agree with this court decision. I do believe that burning the flag is wrong, however having the right to burn the flag is important in the fundamentals of our country. American citizens should be able to express their opinions and political views by any means, excluding harming another person. The right to symbolically speak out is necessary in upholding the 1st amendment and freedom of expression....