## Overview The “First Amendment” is not an organization, but rather the cornerstone of the U.S. Bill of Rights—the first of the ten amendments ratified in 1791 to protect fundamental freedoms from government interference[1][2][9]. The First Amendment guarantees freedoms of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition, and is a foundational element of American democracy[1][2][9]. However, there are organizations dedicated to defending and promoting these rights, such as the **First Amendment Coalition (FAC)** and the **Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE)**, which are often associated with the “First Amendment” in advocacy contexts. ## What the First Amendment Does The First Amendment prohibits Congress from making laws that establish a religion, prohibit its free exercise, abridge freedom of speech or the press, interfere with the right to peaceably assemble, or prevent citizens from petitioning the government for redress of grievances[1][2][9]. These protections have been interpreted by the Supreme Court to apply to all levels of government and to encompass a broad range of activities, including expressive association and the right to receive information[1][3][5]. ## Key Organizations Protecting First Amendment Rights **First Amendment Coalition (FAC):** FAC is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting free speech, a free press, and the public’s right to know[4]. Founded to advance government transparency and First Amendment protections, FAC engages in education, advocacy, and litigation. It emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to ensure that a wide range of voices—especially those traditionally marginalized—are heard in public discourse[4]. FAC’s work is crucial in an era where technology and business increasingly intersect with free expression and privacy concerns. **Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE):** FIRE defends free speech and free thought for all Americans, focusing on individual rights in educational and public settings[7]. It has