In Philly, a new generation finds its voice — and the tools to defend it

Over 100 students from 70 universities gathered at the National Constitution Center this July for FIRE’s 2025 Student Network Summer Conference — where they didn’t just study free speech, they defended it.

Say it with a song

Satire’s sweetest assassin sang about nukes, nuns, and naughty books — with a smile. In this tribute, Angela C. Erickson remembers the razor-sharp wit and fearless free speech of America’s most charming troublemaker.

Introducing Expression, FIRE's official new Substack

Free speech has a new home. FIRE is now on Substack — delivering fearless commentary, analysis, and storytelling straight to your inbox. Join the conversation.

FIRE highlights artistic freedom with launch of new YouTube interview series featuring heavy metal and punk’s biggest stars

When free expression gets loud, the censors come knocking — watch FIRE’s new series Fire with FIRE to hear how punk and metal artists fight back.

Freelance investigative journalist Sammy Sussman to headline FIRE’s student press workshop

Join us June 14 in Philly for FIRE’s Free Press Workshop with investigative reporter Sammy Sussman. Apply now!

New tools for tough conversations

FIRE’s civil discourse program now includes bold new tools from the Mercatus Center to help students tackle controversy. Ready to dive in? Let’s talk.

On break from the burden of self-censorship

At the FIRE Student Network Conference, I experienced a ‘safe space’ for free speech.

Summer & fall picks: New & forthcoming books on free speech — FAN 344

FIRE announces $75 million expansion into off-campus free speech advocacy, defense

PHILADELPHIA, June 6, 2022 — Today, the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education becomes the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression.

Recent ASU law school conference on 'Non-Governmental Restrictions on Free Speech' draws noted scholars — FAN 334

First Amendment News is a weekly blog and newsletter about free expression issues by Ronald K. L. Collins and is editorially independent from FIRE.