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Can my free speech be restricted because of what I say—even if it is controversial? Where can I engage in free speech activity? What about free speech activity on private property? Does the anti-protest law protect me if I get injured? Do I need a permit before I engage in free speech and assembly activity? If organizers have not obtained a permit, where can a march take place? May I distribute leaflets and other literature on public sidewalks? Do I have a right to picket on public sidewalks? Can government impose a financial charge on exercising free speech rights? Do counter-demonstrators have free speech rights? Does it matter if other speech activities have taken place at the same location? What other types of free speech activity are constitutionally protected? What should I do if my rights are being violated by a police officer? Can I record the police?

Does it matter if other speech activities have taken place at the same location?

Answer

Yes. The government cannot discriminate because of the controversial content of the message. Thus, if you can show that similar events to yours have been permitted in the past (such as a Veterans or Memorial Day parade), then that is an indication that the government is involved in selective content-based enforcement if they are not granting you a permit.