Protected free speech from government oppression. From a private employer? No. She later identified herself on social media (aka a public forum) and all it takes is a quick search on Facebook from an HR person and as long her post was public or someone saved a screenshot of the interaction on social media, the company has evidence of employee behavior that could negatively impact the company's reputation. This is especially important in an at-will employment state. Free speech enables someone to freely express themselves, have publication of thoughts and ideas, along with their right to peacefully assemble, practice their own religion -- and the government can't put them in jail for whatever the person says in public -- this was the intent the Founding Fathers had when creating the First Amendment. Free speech does not protect the person from outside consequences of their actions.