The First Amendment only protects your speech from government actions—not private companies or individuals. In Kentucky and Ohio, most free speech lawsuits must involve a government actor to move forward.
Many people think the First Amendment protects them from all forms of censorship, but it only applies to government actions—not private individuals or companies. That means you generally can’t sue a private business, employer, or individual for restricting your speech. However, if the person or business is acting on behalf of the government—or working closely with a government agency—there may still be a case. For example, a private employer or a private website like Facebook can legally restrict your speech, even if it feels unfair. But when a government agency, public official, or public school takes action against you because of your speech, that raises constitutional concerns. In Kentucky and Ohio, successful First Amendment lawsuits almost always involve government actors.
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