U.S.—During the ongoing pandemic, Facebook has decided to crack down on any posts that encourage activities violating edicts from local governments, such as mass protests or leaving one’s house. As part of this effort, the platform is now removing any posts that quote the First Amendment, as they say all it does is encourage illegal activity.
“Remember the First Amendment,” read a post by Facebook user Samantha Tucker. “It says, ‘Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.’”
The post was immediately taken down by Facebook admins, who noted that “free exercise of religion” and “peaceably assembling” and “petitioning the government in times of crisis” are strict violations of local laws. The warning did note that “free speech is allowed,” but only if it stays within “Facebook’s strict guidelines.”
The First Amendment isn’t the only amendment to be scrutinized by Facebook, as quoting the Second Amendment results in an immediate lifetime ban. Anyone can quote the Third, though, as no one really cares about that one.