[billyboy]

i don't think you can just walk around just about anywhere in the US insulting people based on their religion , race, or looks without getting slapped around the ears

You can't libel or slander, which would not cover racial words, and in California, you cannot say things that are liable to provoke a fight, can't disturb the peace, and as I said previously, You may not say things that could cause a stampede such as: shouting "FIRE" in a movie theatre when there is no fire.