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

Freedom of speech is explicitly protected by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. This amendment safeguards the right of individuals to express themselves without government interference or regulation. It encompasses various forms of expression, including spoken words, written communication, and symbolic speech. The purpose of this protection is to promote a marketplace of ideas, ensuring that diverse viewpoints can be shared and debated openly, which is essential for a functioning democracy.

The other options mentioned pertain to different rights that are protected under various amendments and legal principles. The right to bear arms, for instance, is protected by the Second Amendment. The right to a fair trial is a part of the due process rights found in the Fifth and Sixth Amendments. Lastly, the right to own property is generally protected under the Fifth Amendment through the principle of due process and the right against unlawful seizures. Each of these rights plays a crucial role in American law and society, but it is specifically the First Amendment that guarantees freedom of speech.