Defending Press Freedom: A Vital Forum for Democracy's Preservation

Press Freedom Under Assault: A Forum for Democracy

In recent years, constant attacks on the press have stirred concern for the future of democracy in the United States. This essential topic will be explored in-depth during an upcoming online forum titled "Press Freedom under Assault: Preserving our Democracy," organized by ClassACT HR73. The event will take place on June 11, 2025, and promises to provide critical insights from some of the foremost experts in journalism, law, and media.

The Panelists

Moderated by Sylvester Monroe, Senior Fellow at the University of Southern California’s Annenberg Center for Communication Leadership and Policy, the panel features distinguished individuals including Geoffrey Cowan, a renowned First Amendment attorney; Susan Goldberg, the president and CEO of GBH, a major producer of PBS content; and Kevin Merida, formerly the executive editor of the Los Angeles Times and the managing editor of the Washington Post.

Monroe himself is a seasoned journalist with a background in reporting for prominent publications such as Newsweek and Time, and he’s held senior editorial positions at renowned outlets including the Washington Post and LA Times. His experiences provide him with a unique perspective on the pressing issues that the media currently faces.

Key Issues on the Agenda

The forum will delve into various concerning phenomena. Notably, it will explore the U.S. government's attempts to censor the language used by respected media outlets, along with the Department of Justice's scrutiny of news organizations regarding their diversity, equity, and inclusion policies. Such actions raise significant questions about the state's commitment to protecting a free press.

Furthermore, the panel will examine attempts to cut federal funding for national public media, including National Public Radio (NPR) and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS). These measures have critical implications for the availability of diverse news sources, particularly at a time when local newspapers in the U.S. are fading rapidly – leaving a vacuum that is often filled with misinformation.

A Shift towards Authoritarianism?

One of the key discussions will focus on whether these trends indicate a fundamental shift in the relationship between journalism and politics, potentially leading towards authoritarian governance. Monroe emphasizes, "A free and independent press is a cornerstone of democracy. It is imperative that everyone works to defend it." This statement serves as a rallying cry for all citizens to engage in protecting press freedom as a fundamental element of democratic society.

How to Participate

This forum is open to everyone interested in the delicate balance between press freedom and governmental authority. Registration for the free online event is available on the ClassACT HR73 website, providing a platform for individuals to engage in this timely discussion.

ClassACT HR73 is a non-profit organization formed by members of the Harvard-Radcliffe Class of 1973, dedicated to addressing significant social issues and fostering positive change in society. Participants and attendees are encouraged to bring their questions and perspectives, fostering a vibrant conversation on pressing issues affecting journalism today.

For more information about the panelists and to register, interested individuals can visit the following link: Press Freedom under Assault. As we confront the evolving challenges faced by the media, it is critical that society coalesces around the essential value of a free press. By participating in such forums, we can better understand the current landscape and advocate for our rights as informed citizens.

Let us come together to discuss, defend, and preserve democracy through the lens of press freedom, ensuring that our voices, represented through an independent media, remain loud and clear in the public discourse.