At the City of Tumwater, we respect First Amendment rights to speech and assembly. 

Upholding the right to free speech and assembly, though sometimes challenging, is fundamental to government in the United States.

And, it is important that we recognize that government agencies, including here in Tumwater, do not have the authority to prohibit political events, rallies, or signature gathering, all of which are protected by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution as well as Washington courts and law.  

Tumwater is a place where people engage in democracy in a whole range of ways, and we welcome community participation in government. 

Rising political pressures – nationally, regionally, and locally - provide the City and our community with an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to freedom of speech, expression and assembly – while also valuing public safety and valuing one another as people.

Many in our community care for one another, boost one another up, and respect one another as neighbors, even in disagreement. We as a community can uphold our constitutional freedoms, agree to disagree constructively when common ground is elusive, and show one another kindness and respect.

We want to encourage the many people in Tumwater who practice the values of civility, safety, and mutual respect as participants in our democracy.   Thank you.

Municipal Research and Services Center (MRSC):  The Right to Assemble: Responding to Protests, Spontaneous Gatherings, and Counterdemonstrations