America has long been considered the leader of the free world, and though not ideal, many Americans take their freedoms for granted. While there’s always room for improvement, and some recent laws might have made you feel like the U.S. is losing its spot as the land of the free, many things make America stand out for all the right reasons. Here is a portion of the freedoms that Americans enjoy every day, with some comparison to other nations.
Freedom of speech
Americans enjoy broader freedom of speech than most nations. You can express your views without fear of retaliation, censorship, or worse. Freedom of speech is a staple of American life, so it should be celebrated, not abused. Democracy depends on freedom of speech, so we should do everything to protect it.
Freedom of assembly
The First Amendment bans the government from prohibiting people from gathering together and protesting. This freedom is under attack in some states. Yet it is one of those freedoms that made it possible for people’s voices to change policies and make government work for them, not vice versa. Many citizens of other countries never had an opportunity to have their voices heard, so Americans should not take this right for granted.
Freedom of religion
No religion is better or worse in the United States. Even some European countries have limitations, but Americans are free to practice nearly 400 religions, and any privilege shouldn’t be used to discriminate. Religious liberty also means not being affiliated with any practice or being involved with more than one. While Christianity is dominant, the Founding Fathers made sure to make everyone welcome.
Freedom to marry whomever they choose
LGBTQ+ couples in the States can marry as long as marriage both parties are willing and over 18. Many E.U. countries recognize civil unions, though things are gradually improving. There are many current anti-LGBTQ+ issues in the country, but there are also many reasons and laws that protect individuals regardless of orientation, race, gender, creed, or religion.
The right to be an equal
Another vital right that should be celebrated is the right to be an equal. This law guarantees that a governmental body may not deny people equal protection in its governing laws. If a woman in a U.S. company finds that a man in the same position earns more, she has laws on her side. Sadly, that’s not the case in many places on the planet.
The right to speak your native language
The U.S. does not have an official language. English is widespread, but the Founding Fathers believed that declaring one language as official would be harmful to individual liberties. Some states adopted English as an official language, but at the federal level, the U.S. is among several nations that value people and their heritage above everything else.
Freedom to gain information
Many Asian, African, and even some European nations are officially or unofficially not allowed to access specific websites or topics. But, Americans are primarily allowed to gain any information they want, and we know that information is power. That’s why Americans should appreciate living in a world without censorship.
Freedom to vote
You might see it as a Tuesday in November, but the right to vote, regardless of your gender, for example, is still unimaginable across the globe. Not only that, but Americans enjoy the freedom of having elections, and though the Electoral College might have its downsides, at least you can rest assured that your vote counts.
Free press
The First Amendment legally protects freedom of the press in the U.S. While it is not a perfect system and never will be, the level of liberty among American journalists is enviable. The First Amendment is critical to a democracy and allows the public to make informed decisions, hold leaders accountable, and hear diverse opinions without government influence.
Freedom not to go to an army
Military service in the U.S. is voluntary, unlike in most countries worldwide. Whether or not you want to enlist is now your choice, so people no longer have to fear being drafted. That being said, the American army is one of the most admired in the world, and it protects the lives of U.S. citizens daily.
Freedom to wear what you want
Of course, you shouldn’t be breaking public decency laws, but Americans, for the most part, can wear what they want. It might seem trivial, but many countries have specific rules, especially regarding women and their choices. The U.S. women are free to dress up or down, wear minis or cover-ups, and it is all part of self-expression. In some parts of the world, even wearing jeans could potentially lead to violent death.
Reproductive rights freedom (in some states)
Despite losing the 50-year-old historical Roe vs. Wade ruling, reproductive rights in many states still exist, and these states are safe havens for those who lost their freedoms. Reproductive health care, including birth control and legal abortion care, is considered an essential human right in America. Regardless of your beliefs, America is a democracy, and the ballot would support reproductive rights in every state.
The right to divorce
Couples can file for a divorce on the grounds of either fault or no fault in all 50 states. Some states might ask for a reconciliation period, but getting a divorce in the U.S. is nothing unusual or challenging. You should not take this right for granted because, in some countries, getting a divorce is impossible. In others, only men can ask for a divorce.
Rights against police searches
Americans also enjoy the right not to consent to police searches without probable cause or warrants. In fact, if officers show up empty-handed at your door, you can tell them to leave. The laws also protect people from excessive use of force by the police and forced confessions or testimonies.
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Kate Smith, a self-proclaimed word nerd who relishes the power of language to inform, entertain, and inspire. Kate's passion for sharing knowledge and sparking meaningful conversations fuels her every word.