The 45th President of the United States has articulated a narrow interpretation of the First Amendment that includes stricter limits on press freedom and harsh penalties for civil disobedience. While some journalists predict the next four years will be “a new low in American democracy” when it comes to freedom of, and respect for a strong, independent “fourth branch” of the government, what are the real implications for 1A in the Trump era?
At the same time, traditional notions about the press’ role are being challenged by the proliferation of “news” on the social media networks that Americans increasingly use as a primary source of information. Un-curated and free from the restrictions imposed by conventional publishers, this new type of speech creates unique challenges for established 1A standards.
What does the First Amendment look like in the emerging post-election world? Attorney, professor, writer, consultant and IWPA’s First Amendment Network Contact Kate Danna will lead members, students and guests in an important discussion of the issues. A graduate of Georgetown University and Saint Louis University School of Law, Kate was a law clerk to legendary federal judge James Moran before practicing as a litigator and appellate attorney in Chicago for 10 years. A life-long student of our constitutional system, Kate has a passion for the amazing experiment that is American government and the importance of our civil liberties.
Please join us for this FREE event. Email your RSVP by Monday, April 3 to IWPA1885@gmail.com.