The First Amendment protects the right of peaceful assembly and free speech for American citizens. While demonstrations are a fundamental democratic right, they must not escalate into violence or property damage. The Constitution provides specific protections for citizens, and while visitors to the United States are subject to legal protections, they are not granted the same political participation rights as citizens. Political engagement and efforts to influence societal change remain the responsibility of those who are legally citizens of the United States.

The recurring need to emphasize this point puzzles me, as I’ve been aware of these facts since my middle school history classes. This persistent need to repeat these points raises questions about the current state of education and the quality of instruction students receive today. What other fundamental knowledge is being overlooked, whether it be intentional or not.