TikTok, Free Speech, and the First Amendment: Why It Matters

Young people, journalists and nonjournalists alike, rely on platforms like TikTok for self-expression, community information, and news.

Our mission at the First Amendment Foundation of Ventura County is to safeguard free expression for everyone. So, why should we care about the government’s push to ban TikTok—or any platform for that matter? Simply put, it’s an attempt to limit speech, particularly the speech of younger generations, journalists, and diverse communities who rely on these platforms to speak and be heard.

Government Overreach and the Constitution

The First Amendment is clear: government shall make no law abridging free speech. When legislative bodies consider banning or heavily restricting TikTok, they risk curtailing expression by removing a prominent forum—especially for younger voices, artists, and creatives. Many of these potential bans are driven by lawmakers who may not personally use the platform or understand its cultural relevance. They equate it with frivolous content, even though meaningful journalism and critical discourse also thrive there.

A Lifeline for Journalists and Creators

Journalists often rely on social platforms to expand their reach, share breaking news, and foster community engagement. By banning TikTok, we’re cutting off a key distribution channel that allows stories to be heard by audiences who might not otherwise seek out traditional outlets. Let’s help journalists grow their audiences, not hinder them.

Embracing All Forms of Expression

Whether you’re listening to a podcast via Spotify, or on YouTube, or you get your information from the latest up-and-comers on TikTok, these platforms are about more than just entertainment. They’re about connecting people to the music, news, and conversations that shape culture. At the First Amendment Foundation, we believe in preserving these avenues for expression—not shutting them down because some lawmakers simply “don’t get it.”

Join Us

We invite you to stand with the First Amendment Foundation of Ventura County as we champion the right to free speech across all platforms. Let’s work together to ensure that no government action—no matter how well-intentioned—can undermine the cornerstone of our democracy.

Interested in getting involved? Contact us to learn more about our advocacy efforts, upcoming events, and how you can help protect the First Amendment in the digital age.