Bridging Blocks | Is Free Speech Truly Free?

The freedom of speech is protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, which limits the government from interfering with or abridging it. While there are exceptions, such as obscenity, harassment or threats to public safety, speech is generally protected under the law. This is not the case around the world. Authoritarian states like China, North Korea and Russia impose rigorous restrictions and censorship on their citizens. 

What are the challenges to free speech? Has social media helped or hurt free speech? Is there too much or too little freedom? Do you feel your speech is free and protected? Is there a way to protect individuals from harm without suppressing the rights of others to express ideas?

Join WHYY News Community & Engagement team for Bridging Blocks, a civic dialogue series in partnership with The Free Library of Philadelphia.

Host - Tony Cuffie Senior Manager Community & Engagement, WHYY News

Moderator - Brisa Luzzi Castro Community Convener, WHYY News

Bridging Blocks, a partnership between The Free Library of Philadelphia and WHYY, is made possible by a generous grant from Fred and Barbara Sutherland