Mission
The First Amendment Foundation is a nonpartisan, nonprofit Florida-based organization dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the fundamental freedoms of expression recognized in the First Amendment. Our mission is to defend these freedoms in the Sunshine State while empowering its individuals, communities, and institutions. We work to raise awareness of and advocate for the rights of free speech, press, and assembly, as well as government transparency and access to public records as protected by the Florida constitution.
Services
- Advocacy - As a 501(c)3, the First Amendment Foundation is a watchdog of the Florida government and legislature. We track, analyze, and educate the public on all 1A rights and open government violations.
- Awareness - The First Amendment Foundation highlights issues impacting the public's rights of expression and access to government through our website and publications. We provide updates on governmental decisions, legislation, and initiatives that either help or threaten Floridian's basic freedoms. Our aim is to empower communities by giving them strategies to advance the power of their voice and protect their freedoms. To this end, every year, we publish our Government-in-Sunshine Manuel in partnership with the Attorney General's Office, which is the most authoritative source on government transparency available in the state. We also put out guidebooks on various subjects, such as banned books and unwarranted police raids, to help communities fight against infringements of their rights and freedoms.
- Education/Training - We aim to offer online specialized training to journalists, state agency organizations, and citizens to give them the knowledge and tools to navigate public records and open meeting laws effectively. Some of our programs will also offer CLE and CE credits for lawyers and record custodians.
- Legal Aid & Referrals - We assist newsrooms and citizens facing legal challenges related to accessing public records or encountering roadblocks in open government efforts. We offer advice, assistance, and where possible, legal referral services.
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