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What is Student™ Press Freedom Day?

Student Press Freedom Day falls on Wednesday, January 30 2019 this year. The 1988 Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier Supreme Court decision has left a lasting impact on both the censorship of students and student self-censorship. For over thirty years, students journalists have been censored, intimidated and silenced on topics deemed “controversial” by administrators.

Now, students want reform at the state level. The “New Voices” legislation protects the First Amendment press rights of student journalists, and prevents against the censorship of teachers and advisers. Currently, fourteen states have enacted this legislation.

It’s time to demand #StudentPressFreedom. Learn more about what you can do with this guide to your rights.

What is New Voices?

New Voices is a nonpartisan, student-powered grassroots movement at the state level. These activists are seeking to protect student press freedom. From advocates in law, education, journalism and civics, these groups are coming together to allow students the protections they deserve.

Currently, there are state-by-state legislatures pushing to revoke the Hazelwood decision. The purpose of New Voices is to prevent student journalists from being censored or prior reviewed by their administrators. In some states, the bills protect advisers’ rights as well. New Voices, as well, encourages students not to self-censor or drop investigative reporting in fear of censorship or repercussions for their advisers.

Which states have New Voices protections?

Arkansas, California, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington. Additionally, there are codes protecting student journalism rights in the District of Columbia and Pennsylvania.