Online Courses to Explore Value of Constitutional Freedoms and Transparency During Health Crisis
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT Justin Silverman | 774.244.2365 | justin@nefac.org
The New England First Amendment Coalition and the Nackey S. Loeb School of Communications are offering two free online classes about the First Amendment and the public’s right to know about government during a time of crisis.
NEFAC’s partnership with the Loeb School to offer free online classes is the latest example of how the coalition is helping to protect the press and educate the public during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more about how we can help you during this public health crisis.
To participate in either or both classes described below, register for them and you will receive log-in information.
Freedom of Information Laws and Your Right to Know
Presented by Justin Silverman, NEFAC Executive Director
April 23 | 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
The motto “assume your government will be open, but be prepared to fight for it,” seems even more important at a time when we are depending on the government for information which will keep citizens healthy. After this class students will have a better understanding of why government transparency is needed in our democracy despite its tension with personal privacy and security interests.
The First Amendment in Times of Crisis
Presented by Gregory V. Sullivan, NEFAC Board Member
April 29 | 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
This class will serve as a First Amendment primer, highlighting examples from other times of crisis and focusing on defamation and freedom of speech. Students will learn about the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and the five freedoms it protects. During class, students will view examples from challenging times in U.S. history when constitutional rights were tested and landmark legal cases reinforced First Amendment protections.
NEFAC was formed in 2006 to advance and protect the Five Freedoms of the First Amendment, including the principle of the public’s right to know. We’re a broad-based organization of people who believe in the power of an informed democratic society. Our members include lawyers, journalists, historians, academics and private citizens.
Our coalition is funded through contributions made by those who value the First Amendment and who strive to keep government accountable. Please make a donation here.
Major Supporters of NEFAC include Hearst Connecticut Media Group, The Boston Globe, Paul and Ann Sagan, WBUR, Boston University and the Robertson Foundation.