> I'm not trying to make a political statement and not going to say what side of this issue I'm on, but whatever your side is you have the right to express it.

Maybe, maybe not. The Supreme Court of the USA has ruled that speech is not protected at all times and in all places. There are “time, place, and manner restrictions”.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freedom_of_speech_in_the_Unite...

I have a hard time believing courts wouldn’t side with the captain here. All they have to say is they are in charge, perceived a threat to their crew, provided a chance for resolution, and ultimately played it safe. All of which are true.