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I've been waiting for the start of these threads, and I'm glad that we started. Thanks, dksuddeth.
Niceties out of the way, Free Speach, IMO gives the individual the right to say anything that is not seditious (actively advocating for the violent overthrow of the government), treasonous (actively undermining the physical wellbeing of the nation and people) or dangerous ("fire" in a crowded theater). That leaves an incredibly wide area open. The petition for redress applies to both the people and the states, and I think that this is pretty well established law.
Religion is where it gets interesting, especially in today's "10 Commandments" climate. I'm not really sure how to directly answer your question since I'm not entirely sure where you're trying to go with it, so I'm going to focus on a single topic. The state cannot and should not advocate any religion or bodies of religion. Yes, the 10 Commandments are a part of our heritage, just like the Magna Carta. However, displaying them on state property on a standalone basis is the active advocation of Judeo-Christianity. I'm looking at you, Alabama. The 10 C. as a part of a display of the history of law is fine.
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"They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." - B. Franklin
"There ought to be limits to freedom." - George W. Bush
"We have met the enemy and he is us." - Pogo
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