The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) appears to have backed off its defense of hate groups and their rhetoric, saying it is not obliged to represent organizations whose members demonstrate while carrying firearms. The policy shift puts the national organization in line with California chapters that objected to the ACLU’s ongoing representation of white supremacist groups in the wake of the deadly Aug. 12 protest in Charlottesville, Va.

Freedom of speech, although sorely tested in court, remains intact, legal experts contend. Americans are at liberty to speak their minds. But often they don’t—at least not at the office. 

Why not?

Google may have the answer.

AUSTIN, Texas—Christian pediatrician Whitney Morgan noticed the Facebook post referencing a Kiker Elementary School event: Monday, Feb. 6, 2017, 8-9 a.m.: “Coffee Talk with Dr. Schneider-Welcoming Schools.” Parents who wanted more information could find a brief description online: “Welcoming Schools is a comprehensive approach for educators to learn more about Embracing Family Diversity, Creating Inclusive Environments, Preventing Bias-based Bullying and Name Calling.”

A Wisconsin photographer and blogger won her fight last week against city and state laws forcing her to participate in same-sex wedding ceremonies. Amy Lawson’s saving grace did not come from the First Amendment but from her lack of a brick-and-mortar location.

In an effort to fight terrorism within its borders, the United Kingdom has called for the establishment of the Commission for Countering Extremism. Critics worry attempts to ferret out extremists before they strike could result in collateral damage to free speech rights.

Two students have filed a lawsuit against their Pennsylvania school district for the right to operate a pro-life club according to their proposed mission statement. The lawsuit, filed July 11, came after the district refused to back down from requiring the club’s policies meet unprecedented standards.

Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter has stepped into a dispute over the display of Christian emblems on a public university campus, declaring the issue a top religious liberty priority. In a July 5 letter to East Central University’s Board of Regents, Hunter said the fight could have repercussions beyond the ECU campus and asked administrators to refer all future responses to his office.