Doesn't sound like Cindy Sheehan was breeching the first amendment with holding a "large rally" in this situation. What constitutes a "large rally"? That is quite subjective! Let the woman be heard...her son is dead.
Just let her speak and have her peace.
The First Amendment prohibits government from abridging "the right of the people peaceably to assemble." People are entitled to assemble and to speak and be heard, as long as they remain nonviolent. This basic freedom ensures that the spirit of the First Amendment survives and thrives even when the majority of citizens would rather suppress expression it finds offensive. This right is guaranteed against unreasonable federal and state restrictions and interference. However, local authorities may properly require that large rallies and parades be held only after the police department has been notified. They may also require permits, as long as the requirement is a general one that all organizations must meet.
NEW YORK - Police cut short a speech by anti-war activist Cindy Sheehan and arrested a rally organizer, saying he hadn't obtained a permit for use of a loudspeaker.
Sheehan, the grieving mother whose 26-day vigil near PPresident Bush’s Texas ranch sparked anti-war protests around the country, had nearly finished her speech Monday when police intervened.
Supporters ushered her away from the rally at Manhattan's Union Square park as onlookers yelled at police and chanted "Let her speak!"
Rally organizer Paul Zulkowitz was charged with unauthorized use of a sound device and disorderly conduct. He was given a court summons and released, said Detective Kevin Czartoryski.
Sheehan, whose son was killed in Iraq last year, is calling for the immediate return of troops from the region. Her 25-state tour is set to culminate Saturday with an anti-war march in the nation's capital.
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