"Open government is good government"
Sunshine Week is March 16-22, 2014. This celebration coincides with the birthday of President James Madison, who wrote that “a people who mean to be their own Governors, must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives.”
“
Sunshine Week is a national initiative to promote a dialogue about the importance of open government and freedom of information. Participants include news media, civic groups, libraries, nonprofits, schools and others interested in the public’s right to know.”
Former ASNE FOI co-chairs Andrew Alexander and Tim Franklin discuss Sunshine Week 2013.
“
Launched in 2005, Sunshine Week has grown into an enduring annual initiative to promote open government and push back against excessive official secrecy.”
“Citizens from across the country are now gearing up for this year’s Sunshine Week – March 16-22 – to once again spark a nationwide discussion about the critical importance of access to public information.”
“Sunshine Week was created by the American Society of News Editors and is now coordinated in partnership with the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press, but freedom of information isn’t just a press issue. It is a cornerstone of democracy, enlightening and empowering people to play an active role in their government at all levels. It helps keep public officials honest, makes government more efficient and provides a check against abuse of power.”
Sunshine Week is brought to you by
John S. and James L. Knight Foundation / Bloomberg / The Gridiron Club and Foundation
American Society of News Editors / Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press
