Protecting the First Amendment: Freedom of the Press & Reporter's Privilege October 22, 2008

A major tenet of the First Amendment has come under attack in recent years, undermining the ability of journalists to keep the public informed of major events at home and abroad. Known as the reporter's privilege, this right enables reporters to protect the identity of confidential sources who often are the key to exposing wrongdoing by leaders in government, business, education and elsewhere. Without such protection, sources could be reluctant to cooperate with the media. Speakers will share their knowledge of this important civil liberty in both a historic context and today.