In the country of America, where freedom reigns, it is almost incomprehensible that many citizens are frowned upon for using the Bill of Rights given by the constitution. Failure to respect the fundamental principles founded in the Constitution and the rights of individualism is unacceptable. The lack of respect for the inalienable rights of every American is growing and should not be tolerated. The First Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees the American citizen freedom of speech (law.cornell.edu). John Locke wrote that every human being has the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. He believed in a country tolerant of full liberty (erepository.law.shu.edu) The Constitution, written by Thomas Jefferson and influenced by philosophers such as John Locke, embodies such inalienable rights. The Founding Fathers of the United States believed that free speech was such a priority that they purposely included it as the First Amendment. The word is a part of life; it is a freedom that encourages the pursuit of happiness if used correctly. Freedom of speech is afforded to any American citizen regardless of his or her religion, belief, or career. However, according to some professional organizations, not all citizens are afforded freedom of speech. Professional athletes count as American citizens. Although athletes are considered representatives of their cities, as tax-paying American citizens, they should be able to express their opinions as any other American should. However, with current events unfolding, this is not the case. Brendon Ayanbadejo, for example, was ridiculed and fired from his job for openly supporting gay marriage; a controversial topic (nydailynews.com) Maryland Delegate Emmett C. Burns feels......at the center of the document......t offered in the United States Constitution. No one is responsible for siding with politicians; especially if it's not part of their job. If someone is denied the first amendment, no one can predict which amendments will be denied after the first, or liberties will begin to be denied. When the Founding Fathers built this great country, they did not intend for the Constitution to be dismantled to suit personal agendas or ignored by politicians who are supposed to serve the American people. Works Cited Daniel, Alex. “Seton Hall Law ERepository.” Site. Np, nd Web. November 10, 2013."LII." LII. Cornell University School of Law, nd Web. November 10, 2013.Mehta, Manish. "America." New York Daily News. New York Daily News and Web. November 10, 2013.MutualVoice, Northwestern. "The most ignorant politician in the world." Forbes. Forbes magazine and Web. 10 November. 2013.