Two different proposals to amend Section 230 share similar goal: Damage online users’ speech
All internet users rely on Section 230, which provides important legal protections when platforms offer their services to the public and when they moderate the content that relies on those services, from the proverbial cat video to an incendiary blog post.
PEN America files legal brief against Trump efforts to censor Bolton book
The literary group argues that barring the publication would be a serious infringement of Bolton’s First Amendment rights, and the public’s right to know.
US Supreme Court ruling a victory for LGBTQI+ workers
The US Supreme Court today declared that federal law bans employment discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The decision is a major victory for LGBTQI+ people across the United States.
Freedom of expression in the fight against systemic racism and oppression
On 25 May 2020, in the United States, George Floyd’s voice was heard for the last time. His horrific murder and his final message – I can’t breathe – shed a harsh light on a reality that far too many look away from. A tipping point was reached. A spark was lit. And the world couldn’t stay silent anymore.
International groups call on Trump to speak up for press freedom
72 journalist and press freedom organisations have joined together to call on President Trump to commend, rather than condemn, the media and ensure their protection from the unprecedented attacks they have faced while reporting on nation-wide protests demanding social and racial justice, particularly for Black communities.
Trump, Twitter, and why a 25-year-old law is needed to protect the future of freedom of expression online
A roundup of how IFEX members and others responded to President Trump’s Executive Order targeting social media platforms, by IFEX media specialist David Christopher.
US: Fueled by years of Trump’s demonization of the media, unprecedented violence breaks out against journalists covering protests
Protests in at least 30 cities across the US following the police killing of George Floyd have resulted in violent attacks from police and protesters alike against journalists. Dozens of incidents have been reported so far, ranging from threats to serious physical assaults.
At least 125 press freedom violations reported over 3 days of U.S. protests
Local and state authorities in the U.S. must stop targeting journalists and media workers covering protests and ensure that the press is exempt from any curfew restrictions, the Committee to Protect Journalists said today.
US: Authorities must protect protesters and journalists, and end use of excessive force
ARTICLE 19 is deeply concerned at the disproportionate and inappropriate response by some US authorities to the social unrest ignited by the killing of George Floyd in police custody.
Trump lashes out against Twitter fact check
The PEN America CEO says the threat is a “red alert for all Americans”.
State laws criminalizing protest on the rise
New PEN America policy paper finds that state legislatures are attempting to clamp down on protest rights with proposals to criminalize or heighten penalties for protests and protest-related acts.
US: RSF applauds Senate’s 2020 World Press Freedom Day resolution
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) thanks Senators Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) for leading a bipartisan coalition of 13 senators in introducing a resolution to celebrate this year’s World Press Freedom Day. The resolution was introduced 20 May.
California prisons block AI researchers from examining parole denials
In a lawsuit filed by EFF, researchers are seeking access to public records on race and ethnicity in parole hearings.
New spy bill threatens press freedom in Australia
The law will allow security officials to access Australians’ personal information that is held by US information technology organizations such as Google, Facebook, Apple, Microsoft, YouTube and more.
California’s lawmakers must enact privacy rules to advance COVID-19 efforts
EFF strongly backs calls, including from California Senate Judiciary Chair Hannah-Beth Jackson, for Governor Gavin Newsom to ensure that his response to this crisis respects Californians’ constitutional right to privacy.
Trump defamation suit against NBC affiliate is unconstitutional attack
PEN America says the tactic is from Trump’s playbook to attack outlets that air material the president dislikes.