What if the press wasn't free to report on government actions? Imagine a world where the government controlled the flow of information. This episode of United She Stands takes you on a journey through the essential role of freedom of the press as enshrined in the First Amendment. We kick off with a refresher on the First Amendment's five fundamental freedoms, with a spotlight on why the founders deemed the freedom of the press crucial for democracy. From the early days of newspapers to the modern digital age, learn how this clause has evolved to encompass all forms of media.

Join us as we recount the gripping Pentagon Papers case and its significant implications for press freedom, where classified Vietnam War documents leaked by Daniel Ellsberg led to a groundbreaking Supreme Court decision. Explore the distinctions between public figures and private citizens in libel cases, and the responsibilities of journalists and private citizens alike in today's media landscape. We also revisit the 1940s Hutchins Commission's call for the media's moral obligations, diving into contemporary challenges like fake news and the ongoing threats to press freedom. Tune in to understand the enduring power and responsibility of the press in safeguarding our democracy.

Connect with USS: United SHE Stands Instagram

References: 

• First Amendment | Contents, Freedoms, Rights, & Facts | Britannica
• U.S. Constitution - First Amendment | Resources | Constitution Annotated | Congress.gov | Library of Congress
• The 1st Amendment - Freedom of the Press — Civics 101: A Podcast (civics101podcast.org)
• Freedom of the Press (history.com)
• Freedom of the press: What you need to know (mtsu.edu)
• Prior Restraint - The Free Speech Center (mtsu.edu)
• Grosjean v. American Press Co. (1936) - The Free Speech Center (mtsu.edu)
• New York Times Co. v. Sullivan (1964) - The Free Speech Center (mtsu.edu)
• Richmond Newspapers, Inc. v. Virginia (1980) - The Free Speech Center (mtsu.edu)
• New York Times Co. v. United States (1971) - The Free Speech Center (mtsu.edu)
• Freedom of the Press: Part 1 — Civics 101: A Podcast (civics101podcast.org)

This episode was edited by Kevin Tanner. Learn more about him and his services here:

• Website: https://www.kevwyxin.com/
• Instagram: @kevwyxin

If you purchase from any links to resources or products, the show may make a small commission.