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

The First Amendment of the United States Constitution is fundamental in safeguarding individual liberties, particularly in the context of expression and assembly. Freedom of speech is one of the core rights enshrined in this amendment. This right ensures that individuals can express their thoughts, opinions, and beliefs without government interference or censorship. It is a crucial aspect of a democratic society, allowing for open discourse, dissent, and the exchange of ideas. The protection of this freedom has been upheld in numerous Supreme Court cases that emphasize its importance to democracy and individual liberty.

In contrast, the other options relate to different amendments: the right to bear arms is protected by the Second Amendment, the right to a fair trial falls under the Sixth Amendment, and protection against self-incrimination is included in the Fifth Amendment. Each of these rights addresses separate areas of legal protection in the Constitution, emphasizing the specific nature of the First Amendment in focusing on freedoms of expression and assembly.