Freedom of the press, access to public records, and the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) are the tools that keep governments accountable and democracy strong. But those rights only matter if we actually use them.
In an age where access to information is increasingly challenged — and sometimes outright attacked — how can students, journalists, and everyday citizens step up to protect and exercise these freedoms?
Join us for an interactive mini-conference that shows you how to use the First Amendment and FOIA to uncover the truth, hold power accountable, and protect your future, led by experts who fight these battles every day.
Schedule
- 12:00 – 1:00 pm | The First Amendment, Decoded
Justin Silverman, Attorney & Executive Director of the New England First Amendment Coalition
Get an insider's crash course on the First Amendment — what it really protects, why press freedom matters, and how it affects your daily life. - 1:00 – 2:00 pm | Hacking Transparency: FOIA in Action
Beryl Lipton, Journalist & Senior Investigative Researcher, Electronic Frontier Foundation
Learn how to file a FOIA request like a pro. From requesting police records to uncovering hidden government data, see exactly how transparency tools work (with a live demo). - 2:00 – 3:00 pm | Ask the Experts: Information Law, Press Cases, and You
Greg Sullivan, Attorney & President of the New England First Amendment Coalition
Bring your questions and curiosity for an open Q&A on the legal side of press rights. Explore real cases, landmark battles, and what's at stake for the future of free expression.