Which organization was the first formed to protect free speech in the United States?

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) was the first organization formed specifically to protect free speech rights in the United States. Established in 1920, the ACLU was created in response to various government actions that suppressed civil liberties, particularly during times of war and social unrest. The organization has a long history of advocating for the protection of free expression, including speech that may be controversial or unpopular. It engages in legal battles, public education, and lobbying to uphold the First Amendment rights of individuals.

While the other organizations mentioned have played significant roles in advocating for free speech and press freedom, they were established later and often focus on specific aspects of media or civil liberties rather than the broader spectrum of free speech rights. For instance, the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press focuses specifically on the rights of journalists, while the Freedom Forum and Media Alliance have more recent origins and focus on press freedom and media advocacy. Thus, the ACLU’s foundational commitment to safeguarding free speech positions it as the first and one of the most influential organizations in this field.