In the case of texas v. johnson, the supreme court ruled that the first amendment protects:
|
Show
Overview
“If there is a bedrock principle underlying the First Amendment, it is that the government may not prohibit the expression of an idea simply because society finds the idea itself offensive or disagreeable.” This case explores the legal concept of freedom of speech. In a political demonstration during the Republican National Convention in Texas, Gregory Lee Johnson doused an American flag with kerosene and set it on fire. He was part of a group protesting the policies of the Reagan Administration and of certain corporations based in Dallas. No one was hurt or threatened with injury, but some witnesses said they were seriously offended. Johnson was charged and convicted with the desecration of a venerated object, in violation of the Texas Penal Code. In a split decision, the U.S. Supreme Court determined that Johnson’s actions were symbolic speech protected by the First Amendment. For TeachersThis section is for teachers.Use the links below to access:
(Learn more about Street Law's commitment and approach to quality curriculum.) About the Case
Learning ActivitiesThe Case
After the Case
Teacher ResourcesTeaching Strategies Used
Landmark Cases GlossaryThe LandmarkCases.org glossary compiles all of the important vocab terms from case materials. It is provided as a view-only Google Sheet. Glossary Planning Time and ActivitiesIf you have one day . . .
If you have two days . . .
If you have three days . . .
If you have four days . . .
Return to Case Listing What did the Supreme Court decide in the case Texas v Johnson?Decision: The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in a 5-4 decision in favor of Johnson. The high court agreed that symbolic speech – no matter how offensive to some – is protected under the First Amendment. DISCLAIMER: These resources are created by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts for educational purposes only.
How did Texas v Johnson affect the First Amendment?The majority of the Court, according to Justice William Brennan, agreed with Johnson and held that flag burning constitutes a form of "symbolic speech" that is protected by the First Amendment.
What amendment does Texas v Johnson fall under?Johnson, 491 U.S. 397 (1989) The First Amendment protections on symbolic speech prevent states from banning desecrations of the American flag. During a political demonstration in Dallas, Texas, Gregory ("Joey") Johnson gained possession of an American flag.
What did the U.S. Supreme Court decide in Texas v Johnson quizlet?in a 5-to-4 decision, the Court held that Johnson's burning of a flag was protected expression under the First Amendment. The Court found that Johnson's actions fell into the category of expressive conduct and had a distinctively political nature.
|
