Ames Public Library: 20th Annual First Amendment Days Celebration

Ames IA

09 April, 2022

7:34 AM

Description

Press release from the Ames Public Library: April 7, 2022 "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." This is the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. These five freedoms are an essential part of American law and culture, and are woven into the fabric of our lives in ways both large and small. From big nation-wide protest movements to the clothes our children wear to school, the First Amendment gives us the freedom to speak out, to express ourselves and share who we are. This is a messy process. We don't always agree when we speak out about what we believe in, but we have the freedom not just to speak, but also to listen. We are free to explore new ideas, new ways of thinking. These freedoms are essential to our democracy, and with it comes the responsibility to listen to one another, to recognize the power that our freedom gives us. That is why the theme of this year's First Amendment Days celebration is "Dare to Speak, Dare to Listen." In a time when we seem divided, we invite you to celebrate with us the fundamental freedoms that tie us together. Iowa State University and the Ames Public Library present a series of events celebrating the five freedoms of the First Amendment. These events are an opportunity to hear from activists, scholars, and experts of all kinds. Throughout the entire week, the Iowa State Library and the Ames Public Library will also have displays of books celebrating the First Amendment. For kids, the Ames Public Library will also be offering sign kits, inviting children to express their own views by making a yard or window sign saying what they believe. Stop by anytime during the week of April 10th to pick up a sign kit and a great read about the First Amendment. We look forward to seeing you this year at the First Amendment Days, as we celebrate our shared freedoms and the ideals that bind us together. For more information about the First Amendment Days, visit the library website at www.amespubliclibrary.org, and the First Amendment event page at https://greenlee.iastate.edu/experience/first-amendment/first-amendment-days. This press release was produced by the Ames Public Library. The views expressed here are the author's own.