Freedom of Assembly

            The topic of discussion for this Constitution Monday concerns the freedom to assemble. The freedom of assembly is part of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, which says: “Congress shall make no law respecting … the right of the people peaceably to assemble ….” It seems that there are some people who are willing to destroy this freedom for certain other people, such as members of the National Rifle Association (NRA).

            Justin Brannan, a New York City council member  from the Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, area, recently tweeted congratulations stating “we’ve successfully chased the @NRA underground in #Brooklyn. Now they’ve gotta sneak around behind our backs and book catering halls under fake names just to have a meeting.” It appears that Brannan was scorched on Twitter for his comment.

            It seems that the Brooklyn Friends of the NRA group were forced to move their meeting several times due to objections by local residents and elected officials. Why is it that Americans have to find to enjoy freedoms outlined in the Bill of Rights? What is the matter with people who think that they can deprive Americans of their rights simply because they disagree with their policies?

            The First Amendment guarantees freedom of assembly and freedom of association to Americans. This is our right. Anyone – even a local government official – who attempts to destroy that freedom is acting like the “brown shirts” in Hitler Germany. This is not the American way!