Which of the following is a right or freedom protected by the First Amendment?

The First Amendment is a critical part of the Bill of Rights in the United States Constitution, primarily designed to protect individual freedoms concerning religion, expression, assembly, and the press. Among these rights, the right to free speech is explicitly stated, allowing individuals to express themselves without government interference or regulation. This protection extends to various forms of expression, including spoken words, written communication, and symbolic actions, as long as they do not incite violence or constitute threats.

The other options represent different rights protected under other amendments. The right to bear arms is found in the Second Amendment, which safeguards individuals' rights to possess and carry weapons. The right to a speedy trial is covered by the Sixth Amendment, ensuring defendants can have a prompt trial to avoid prolonged detention without a verdict. The right to privacy, while recognized in various Supreme Court rulings, does not have an explicit mention in the Constitution and is interpreted through several amendments, particularly the Fourth and the Ninth.