Final answer:
A valid claim from the National Research is that the First Amendment protects symbolic speech, including flag burning, with historical backing from Supreme Court cases.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the National Research, a valid claim is that the First Amendment protects symbolic speech, such as flag burning, as free expression. This perspective is supported by historical Supreme Court rulings, specifically in cases that defined the contours of free speech. For instance, in Brandenburg v. Ohio (1969), the Court established that only speech that is directed to incite imminent lawless action can be prohibited. Symbolic actions, like burning the U.S. flag or wearing armbands with political symbols, are considered forms of protected speech. This precedent solidifies the argument that expression should not be limited simply because it is offensive to some.
The ongoing debate regarding whether displaying the Confederate flag should be deemed as free speech or hate speech is complex, balancing First Amendment rights against the potential for such symbols to inflict harm or incite hatred. Reactions to flag burning and related forms of protest underscore questions about the limits of free speech and whether any form of expression can be universally accepted.