Use It or Lose It
The article discusses the importance of exercising First Amendment rights in America, particularly in light of the dismantling of the Newseum's facade that displayed the amendment. It emphasizes that freedom of speech and press are not just privileges but responsibilities that require active participation from all citizens. The piece warns against misconceptions surrounding these freedoms and encourages individuals to engage in the pursuit of truth and expression.
- ▪The Newseum's facade displaying the First Amendment was dismantled in 2021 due to financial issues.
- ▪Freedom of speech and press are fundamental rights that require active participation from Americans.
- ▪Misconceptions about free speech often lead to confusion regarding consequences and the role of private companies.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
IdeasUse It or Lose ItFreedom of speech, and of the press, can be guaranteed only if Americans exercise their rights.By Adrienne LaFranceIllustration by Ben HickeyJune 1, 2026, 7 AM ET ShareSave Even in an age of unintended metaphors, few can compare to the scene that unfolded one winter morning five years ago on a street corner in downtown Washington, D.C.A group of men gathered in front of the seven-story building at Pennsylvania Avenue and Sixth Street Northwest, just a short walk from the Capitol, and prepared for an act of careful destruction. Their task was to do away with the colossal facade overhead. Slab by slab, they removed the Tennessee pink marble. The 45 words of the First Amendment had been there for years, giant letters carved in stone.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Atlantic.
