The First Amendment prevents Congress from passing any laws that abridge the freedom of speech. But what does that actually mean? Join us for this presentation by Professor Emeritus Meg Mott, PhD as she reviews the history of speech laws in the United States, how states and municipalities have tried to curb offensive speech, and how the Supreme Court has ruled on those efforts. 

Dr. Mott will also examine how speech fits into the life cycle of our democracy. While some argue that limits on speech are necessary for marginalized persons to feel welcome in the public sphere, others argue that the criminalization of speech serves the needs of the penal state more than the general public. 

About the presenter: After twenty years of teaching political theory and constitutional law to Marlboro College undergraduates, Meg Mott is now Professor Emeritus at Emerson College in Boston. 

This presentation will take place on Zoom. Register by clicking HERE or by calling 978-465-4428 x 242.

This program is funded by your donations to the Friends of the Newburyport Public Library.