All men are born free and equal, and have certain natural, essential, and unalienable rights; among which may be reckoned the right of enjoying and defending their Lives and Liberties; that of acquiring, possessing and protecting personal property, ... that of seeking and obtaining their safety and happiness. These rights are natural and not given by a government. Other recognized rights are freedoms of religion, self-government, trial by jury, liberty of the press; and the power to change the government. Taxation must have the consent of the people.
the legislators or lawmakers, called The General Court, which is the House of Representatives and the Senate;
the executive branch, which administers and manages the government, including the governor and lieutenant governor, other statewide elected offices and Governor's Council;
the judiciary: judges, clerks and district attorneys.
Amendments: In addition, there are currently 117 amendments, most have been the result of lawmakers proposing changes or additions, but some started as petitions by private citizens.
All citizens are protected also by state laws, county, town or city charters, local laws and other regulations.
Both the Massachusetts Constitution and the United States Constitution give rights and protections, but also expect duties and responsibilities of its citizens.
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