News
Illinois Faces Free Speech Suit Over ‘Party Name’ Ban
Liberty Check
Democrats for an Informed Approach to Gender (DIAG) is challenging an Illinois law that blocks nonprofits from using political party names without official permission, a restriction now at the center of a constitutional battle.
This law allows the state Democratic and Republican parties to veto other groups’ activities, threatening free speech and the right to organize under the First Amendment.
- The Illinois provision bars DIAG from soliciting donations by banning use of “Democrats” in its name, unless approved by the Democratic Party.
- FIRE, a civil liberties group, has filed a lawsuit asserting this rule outsources censorship to party bosses and violates constitutional rights.
- DIAG says demand from Illinois citizens for its advocacy is strong, yet it is forced to block residents from donating or participating.
Liberty-minded Americans cannot ignore the growing assault on open debate and the principle that dissent is a protected right, not a privilege granted by establishment parties. Upholding limited government means refusing unelected gatekeepers control over speech and association.
Our freedoms depend on staying vigilant.
