Freedom of speech and dissent
The First Amendment protects Americans' freedom of speech and expression. Unfortunately, at various times in US history, the government’s law enforcement branches have disregarded these protections, targeting citizens based on political viewpoint, religious affiliation, or participation in lawful protests.
Despite the fact that targeting individuals or groups for investigation or prosecution based solely on First Amendment-protected activities clearly violates the Constitution, such targeting has only increased since 9/11. Undercover law enforcement officers have infiltrated law-abiding activist groups, police have beaten and tear-gassed protestors at peaceful protests, and people are considered suspect merely because of their real or perceived Islamic faith.