Freedom of the Press and the Sunshine Law:

Knowledge and Power in Government

By Emily Cochrane

9th grade, Coral Reef Senior High, Miami

In his work of 1597, Religious Meditations, Sir Francis Bacon declared that “Knowledge is power.” The words of our Constitution’s First Amendment and Florida’s Sunshine Law unite in support of this profound truth because of the resulting freedom of press and guaranteed transparency in government. The First Amendment states that what is published will not be censored while Florida’s Sunshine Law orders the distribution of government documents upon request. These two laws give every citizen the right to be informed and the gift of empowerment.

The First Amendment dictates that, “Congress shall make no law . . . abridging the freedom of press,” thereby entitling us to public records, bills and documents, as well as our own thoughts and analyses about the actions of our elected representatives. The Sunshine Law further enhances this right centuries later, declaring that “providing access to public records is a duty of each agency.” Our Florida government must provide a clear view of decisions, policies, and deeds without interference or omission. By providing this revealing light, the government is participating in comprehensive communication; enabling the people of Florida to accurately understand what the government is doing and to what extent the government is fulfilling its promises to the people. While the First Amendment prohibits censorship, the Sunshine Law prevents secrecy, a combination ensuring honest communication between our state government and the people of Florida.

The valuable result of the citizens of Florida being given pure information about their government’s work is they are able to take action that is both appropriate and meaningful. If the First Amendment did not give us the right to demand the freedom of press, there would be a veil of censorship that would destroy and belief in the people’s role in government. Through accurate reporting and spirited debate, government leaders stand in full view and are held accountable. If the Sunshine Law did not enable the people unlimited access to government records, there would not be the crucial connection between the citizens and their elected representatives. Through an objective lens, the active process of governing may be traced and analyzed. Only through open and uncensored communication may government react to the needs of the people. Whether in response to accomplishments or struggles, alliances or scandals, the only means to moving forward is through action that springs from knowledge. This knowledge must have truth at its foundation. The First Amendment’s call for freedom of the press and Florida’s Sunshine Law are joined in giving Floridians and opportunity to gain an honest view of their government and the power to respond for the good of the people.

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