Tinker v Des Moines and Texas v Johnson are related as both cases involved freedom of speech. In Tinker v Des Moines, a group of students wore black armbands to protest against the Vietnam War, leading to their suspension. The Supreme Court ruled that the students' symbolic speech was protected under the First Amendment. Similarly, in Texas v Johnson, Gregory Johnson burned an American flag during a protest, resulting in his conviction. The Supreme Court overturned the conviction, stating that flag burning was a form of expressive conduct protected under the First Amendment.
These cases have had significant effects on US citizens. Firstly, they established that students do not “shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate," ensuring that students have the right to express their opinions in school settings. Secondly, they reinforced the protection of symbolic speech, recognizing that nonverbal actions can convey a powerful message. Thirdly, these cases expanded the boundaries of protected speech under the First Amendment, even when it involves controversial or unpopular viewpoints. Lastly, they reaffirmed the importance of freedom of speech in democracy, allowing citizens to voice dissent and critique the government without fear of punishment, preserving individual liberties.