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Jeff Malachowski Daily News Staff @JMalachowskiMW

The First Amendment is the foundation of the country, but some locals say Americans need more knowledge and a better understanding of their First Amendment rights.

The First Amendment ensures that Congress shall pass no law prohibiting freedom of speech, infringement of the press or the right of people to peacefully assemble.

"Peacefully" is the word that sticks out in Dave Fleckners mind when he reads the First Amendment. The Natick resident cited recent riots and demonstrations where protesters have blocked streets, looted stores and destroyed buildings as examples of Americans abusing their First Amendment right to peacefully assemble.

They read into them what they want, he said at the Natick Farmers Market on Saturday. Its gone a bit too far. Its the same with freedom of speech. That doesnt mean you can take violent action if they dont agree with you.

Debra Sayre, also of Natick, stressed that the First Amendment allows Americans to speak their mind and be their own person, but said some protesters are looking to cause trouble at rallies instead of exercising their First Amendment rights.

I think there are people who look for rallies to cause mayhem, she said.

Fleckner said less than one percent of schools across the country teach civics and called on Americans to have a better knowledge of the First Amendment at a younger age.

People need to learn about it, he said. They dont learn them anymore.

Rich Whalen agreed every child should take civics in grammar school to learn about the amendments. He called the First Amendment the backbone of the country.

Whalen said the right to peacefully assemble is a privilege many countries dont have that Americans should be thankful for.

It has to be respected and enforced, said the Natick resident. Its what makes this country strong.

Jeff Malachowski can be reached at 508-490-7466 or jmalachowski@wickedlocal.com. Follow him on Twitter @JmalachowskiMW.

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More First Amendment knowledge needed some locals say - Wicked Local West Roxbury