The Sanders Firm, P.C.: Freedom of Association
On this page The Sanders Firm, P.C., which is the premiere civil rights law firm in New York City, considers the importance of freedom of association as guaranteed by the United States Constitution. Freedom of association, which is directly related to freedom of assembly, is outlined in the First Amendment. As it is with other freedoms, the amendment specifically states that Congress may make no laws prohibiting our right to assemble. Connected to the right to assemble as a group is another right, which is the freedom of association.
What is Freedom of Association?
Freedom of association is linked to the right we possess to assemble. The reason for this connection has to do with the fact that often we have chosen to assemble as some sort of formal group, such as a union, political party, or civic organization. Thus, we have a right to join groups, to assemble with those groups, and to take action as part of the group without reprisal from the government. The amendment states that Congress shall make no law prohibiting our right to assemble. As it is with other rights, this simple statement and basic idea has major implications.
Thus, you may, under the law become part of an association and join in their actions. Additionally, you also have the freedom to leave such organizations if you choose to do so.
Becoming a Part of a Group
The Sanders Firm, P.C. stands behind each person’s freedom of association. This is an important civil right. It is against the law for an employer to stop his/her employees from becoming a part of an association such as a fraternal organization, union, or professional group. Also, the employer may not stop such groups from assembling or acting. Also, an employer may not force an employee to become a member of an association or to leave one. The government is also prohibited from interfering in this type of activity.
As it is with other First Amendment rights, the freedom of association allows us to think and act freely, to try to improve our lives, and to engage in professional and personal growth. And although all of this can be and often is very positive, there are times when governments, law enforcement, and businesses have stopped or tried to stop people from forming or joining associations.
Are You Free to Join?
According to the law, the First Amendment, and the courts, each person has freedom of association. However, even today people may be pressured and intimidated when they try to become a part of or form a union, a guild, a political party, or another such group. It is against the law for any employer to prohibit or intimidate you from becoming a part of an association, to pressure you into joining one, or to try to make you leave one.
Have Your Rights Been Violated?
At The Sanders Firm, P.C. in New York, we are ready to work with you if your freedom of association has been violated. Contact us now if this civil right has been compromised. The Sanders Firm is your voice for justice.
