WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) today announced the launch of a campaign celebrating the First Amendment and its guarantee of free speech and the press. The campaign, which is hosted at WeAreBroadcaters.com/FirstAmendment, provides a toolkit with on-air and digital resources to help media professionals, policymakers and the public celebrate the First Amendment.
“America’s founders, in their infinite wisdom, understood that our country could not long survive without a free press that could report the facts and deliver their opinions without fear or favor,” said NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith. “NAB celebrates this enduring principle that has kept our communities informed and engaged since our nation’s early days, and we honor the ongoing work of the press in preserving our democracy.”
The campaign launched this week to coincide with the 231st anniversary of congressional passage of 12 amendments to the U.S. Constitution that were sent to the states for ratification. Ten of these amendments were eventually adopted as the Bill of Rights, with the First Amendment providing the freedom of religion, speech, the press and the right of assembly.
Among the resources available through the campaign are: an interactive timeline of key moments in history where journalists exercised their First Amendment rights to provide the most trusted news; a social media filter, shareable video and suggested posts highlighting the importance of free speech; and a listing of association, organizations and partners that defend and support the First Amendment.
Also available are previously announced spots recognizing the importance of local radio and TV stations in delivering important news and information to their communities.
About NAB