Assembly Resolution No. 71

BY: M. of A. Lupardo

RECOGNIZING February 26, 2021, as Student Press
Freedom Day

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize
February 26, 2021, as Student Press Freedom Day; and

WHEREAS, On February 26th, the Student Press Law Center is holding a
day of action; journalism students and advocates around the country will
be educating communities on the First Amendment and student press
freedoms; and

WHEREAS, New Voices of New York, the high school student
organization in New York which advocates for student press freedoms, is
a movement to guarantee student journalists in the state the freedom to
report without fear of consequence; and

WHEREAS, Proclaimed in 1993 by the United Nations General Assembly,
World Press Freedom Day celebrates the field of journalism, freedom of
speech, and newsrooms the world over; observed annually, this day
recognizes the work of journalists, editors, and publishers who
sometimes risk their own lives to ensure accurate coverage of news and
events; and

WHEREAS, The integrity of journalism is tied to the independence
journalists have to dedicate themselves and their work to the Code of
Ethics as determined by the Society of Professional Journalists; and

WHEREAS, Journalism is a pillar of democracy and a free press is
protected by the U.S. Constitution, the responsibility and freedoms
allowed therein should apply to student journalists guided by
educational institutions as well; and

WHEREAS, Student reporters are the next generation of journalists;
it is a difficult time for journalists as media across the country has
come under attack; having more control over what they publish will
support journalistic integrity and independence which is needed in a
democratic society; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
recognize February 26, 2021, as Student Press Freedom Day; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Student Press Law Center, and New Voices of New York
chapters throughout the State of New York.