Massachusetts Constitution, Articles 20. Freedom of speech
Here is the text and explanation of Article XX (20) of the Massachusetts Declaration of Rights, which concerns freedom of speech:
📜 Massachusetts Constitution – Declaration of Rights – Article XX
Text of Article XX:
“The liberty of the press is essential to the security of freedom in a state: it ought not, therefore, to be restrained in this commonwealth.”
🔍 Explanation:
Although Article 20 specifically mentions the liberty of the press, it is interpreted as part of the broader guarantee of freedom of expression, including freedom of speech, because:
Freedom of the press historically includes the right to communicate ideas freely, whether spoken, printed, or otherwise expressed.
Courts and legal scholars recognize Article XX as reinforcing the principle that government cannot impose prior restraints or censorship on the press or speech.
It reflects the First Amendment ideals, although framed in a state-specific constitutional context.
✅ Key Takeaways:
Article 20 protects against state-imposed censorship in Massachusetts.
It guarantees a free press as essential to liberty and democracy.
While it does not explicitly mention "speech," it has been interpreted to protect freedom of speech as a necessary extension of press freedom.
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