This document provides an analysis of defamation and hate speech laws in the United States. It begins with a brief history of defamation and hate speech, including key defining cases. It then discusses two recent defamation cases involving hate speech. Next, it examines a law review article analyzing media coverage of Michael Brown and Ferguson protests. It poses two questions on the future of hate speech laws and media responsibility. It concludes by calling for further interpretation, limitations, and research on balancing free speech and defamation regarding hate speech.