Blog
Help promote the First Amendment on Presidents Day
- By: ASNE staff
- On: 01/22/2015 12:01:11
- In: First Amendment
"Presidents Day is a good time to acknowledge that even our greatest presidents were scrutinized and challenged by a free press, and democracy was more robust because of it. It's a good time for America's journalists to take the opportunity to remind readers and viewers of the need to always protect the First Amendment, regardless of message or medium." - Ken Paulson, president of the First Amendment Center
"Both George Washington and Abraham Lincoln were extraordinary leaders who often found themselves vexed by journalists," said Ken Paulson, president of the First Amendment Center. "Presidents Day is a good time to acknowledge that even our greatest presidents were scrutinized and challenged by a free press, and democracy was more robust because of it. It's a good time for America's journalists to take the opportunity to remind readers and viewers of the need to always protect the First Amendment, regardless of message or medium."
The 1 for All campaign's website, 1ForAll.us, has resources and information compiled in its media kit to encourage interest and participation in Presidents Day. In addition, public service announcements and print and web ads are available to be shared by anyone interested. The website also has educational resources designed for a national audience to help increase First Amendment awareness.
The 1 for All campaign also started the First Amendment Challenge. Encourage secondary-school teachers to get involved for a chance to receive $1,000. Forty teachers will be awarded $1,000, and 40 schools will receive recognition plaques for innovative First Amendment education. The Challenge is funded by a generous grant from the Robert R. McCormick Foundation and administered by the American Society of News Editors. To learn more about the Challenge or the 1 for All campaign, visit 1ForAll.us.
1 for All is a national nonpartisan program designed to build understanding and support for First Amendment freedoms. 1 for All provides teaching materials to the nation's schools; supports educational events on America's campuses; and reminds the public that the First Amendment serves everyone, regardless of faith, race, gender or political leanings. It is truly one amendment for all.
For more information, contact Megan Schumacher, senior information specialist at ASNE, at 573-882-3792 or mschumacher@asne.org. Like 1 For All on Facebook and follow 1 For All on Twitter for updates.