Which of the following is a right or freedom protected by the First Amendment?

The First Amendment of the United States Constitution explicitly protects several fundamental rights, one of which is freedom of speech. This freedom ensures that individuals can express their opinions and ideas without fear of government censorship or punishment.

The importance of freedom of speech lies in its role as a cornerstone of democracy, enabling open debate and discussion on various topics, including political, social, and cultural issues. It allows individuals to voice dissent and advocate for change, which is vital for a functioning society.

The other options refer to rights protected by different amendments. The right to bear arms is addressed in the Second Amendment, the right to a fair trial is covered under the Sixth Amendment, and the right to privacy, while it has been recognized in various Supreme Court decisions, is not explicitly stated in the Constitution. Hence, freedom of speech stands as a specific protection directly linked to the First Amendment, affirming its significance in safeguarding individual liberties.