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First Amendment: Under Siege?

Is the First Amendment under siege? In the aftermath of the November election, freedom of speech and freedom of the press may be more important than ever.

These fundamental freedoms could be under threat by a new administration that has targeted the news media as "biased," singled out journalists as "unfair," and has called established science, such as climate change, a "hoax."

On February 16, 2017, the Mayborn School of Journalism hosted a special event titled: First Amendment: Under Siege?

This panel, made up of academics, journalists, and legal experts, dissected the role of the First Amendment in our democracy. Panelists included:

  • First Amendment attorney Paul Watler
  • UNT political science professor Dr. Kimi King
  • Texas Tribune political editor Aman Batheja
  • Matt Mackowiak with Potomac Strategy Group
  • Michael Lindenberger, Dallas Morning News editorial page

Moderator: Rebecca Aguilar, Dallas area television commentator, news consultant, social media trainer and freelance reporter.

These panelists explored these issues and considered ways to combat threats to fundamental First Amendment freedoms assured under the United States Constitution. The event was co-sponsored by the Frank W. and Sue Mayborn School of Journalism at the University of North Texas and the Headliner's Foundation.
 

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