Can you name the five freedoms guaranteed by the First Amendment?
According to a recent survey conducted by the Annenberg Public Policy Center, more than a third of Americans are unable to name a single one. That abysmal statistic should worry any democracy-loving citizen.
Religion. Speech. Press. Assembly. Petition.
Every citizen should know our First Amendment freedoms by heart.
As a member of the journalism faculty at Emerson College and the Cronkite School at Arizona State University, I know the value of education — and we need more of it in our communities.
After serving as executive editor of The Providence Journal, I became president of the New England First Amendment Coalition (NEFAC) to help provide that First Amendment education.
Our members have spoken at more than 40 locations since last year, preaching the value of First Amendment rights and explaining how local journalism is strengthening New England neighborhoods.
Recognizing the importance of this civics education, the Society of Professional Journalists Foundation recently invested $2,500 into our successful First Amendment and the Free Press community conversation series.
We’re now looking to raise a matching $2,500 by the end of the month. Will you help us?
Please make a donation today. Let’s make sure those cherished five freedoms are never forgotten.
Sincerely,
Karen A. Bordeleau
NEFAC President
Former Executive Editor of The Providence Journal
Journalism Faculty Member at Emerson College and the Cronkite School at Arizona State University