The New England First Amendment Coalition is calling on the Vermont Truth & Reconciliation Commission to rescind its press restrictions for an upcoming program in St. Johnsbury.
The commission is hosting the public event on Nov. 15 to provide an opportunity for individuals to describe how state laws or systems have caused them harm.
While suggested guidelines have been provided to help protect the privacy of those speaking at the event, the commission is requiring members of the press to receive permission before recording, taking photos or conducting interviews.
“The First Amendment and the Vermont Constitution provide strong protections for journalists covering government-led meetings in public spaces,” explained NEFAC and the Vermont Press Association in a Nov. 14 letter to the commission. “In addition to protecting the freedom to initiate conversations and associate with those at these meetings, the First Amendment gives members of the press — and other members of the public — the right to record.”
NEFAC and the VPA are asking the commission to at the very least make the recording, photography and interviewing requirement optional and inform all members of the press present at the event.
“We appreciate the sensitivity of the VTRC programs and we’re grateful for the work being done on behalf of those who have suffered harm,” they wrote. “Still, the constitutionally protected rights of journalists must be respected and your restriction must be rescinded.”
NEFAC is the region’s leading advocate for the First Amendment and the public’s right to know about government. In Vermont, the coalition previously argued for the right to record in Barre and Milton. You can read all the coalition’s briefs and advocacy letters here and learn more about your right to record in Vermont here.
NEFAC was formed in 2006 to advance and protect the Five Freedoms of the First Amendment, including the principle of the public’s right to know. We’re a broad-based organization of people who believe in the power of an informed democratic society. Our members include lawyers, journalists, historians, academics and private citizens.
Our coalition is funded through contributions made by those who value the First Amendment and who strive to keep government accountable. Please make a donation here.
NEFAC appreciates the support of all its donors and contributors. In particular, we would like to recognize the Estate of Gloria L. Negri, the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and the following Leadership Circle donors: Rhode Island Foundation, The Boston Globe, Paul and Ann Sagan, and the Robertson Foundation. Major Supporters of NEFAC’s work include Hearst Connecticut Media Group, Boston University and the Academy of New England Journalists.