According to Merriam-Webster, freedom of the press is “the right of newspapers, magazines, etc., to report news without being controlled by the government.” This definition demonstrates how freedom of the press is an essential and core principle of American democracy. Through freedom of the press, journalists are protected under the First Amendment while maintaining balance and power in the government, their respective communities, and newspaper publications. For student-run newspapers, freedom of the press serves as a right that ensures that students feel comfortable and safe in reporting the news. It allows student journalists the freedom to write and publish uninhibitedly.
While not true in all schools nationwide, here at Good Counsel, freedom of the press has always been taken seriously. We believe that our student journalists should write freely, truthfully, and confidently. Good Counsel’s belief in The Talon and the importance of press freedom allows student journalists to write and share important stories about issues and events in their community and the world around them. Student freedom of the press is arguably the most critical building block of student journalism teams in the United States. At The Talon, student freedom of the press should always be maintained and fought for. This National Student Freedom Press Day, the Talon Team encourages you to educate yourself on the importance of student freedom of the press and to support student journalists in your community. Don’t hesitate to contact Talon advisors or staff with questions regarding student freedom of the press or National Student Freedom Press Day!
Citations:
Merriam-Webster. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/freedom%20of%20the%20press
https://studentpressfreedom.org