1. United States
2. N.C.
3. Letter

The right to protest is a fundamental freedom enshrined in the First Amendment of the US Constitution. Peaceful assembly and the ability to voice dissent are cornerstones of a healthy democracy. Any attempt to curtail or punish lawful protests would be an affront to civil liberties. As elected representatives, it is incumbent upon you to safeguard the rights of your constituents to exercise free speech and assembly. Threatening to withhold funding as a means to stifle dissent sets a dangerous precedent and undermines democratic principles. I implore you to uphold constitutional protections and foster an environment where the people's voice can be heard through peaceful protest.