Columbia launches effort to protect free speech with $60 million First Amendment institute

Columbia University announced it will open a $60 million First Amendment institute on campus as part of an initiative to fight for freedom of expression in the digital age.

Advances in modern technology have complicated how the First Amendment is interpreted, and have changed the way that news organizations approach issues regarding freedom of access.

A recent poll conducted by the Knight Foundation revealed that journalism’s focus on the First Amendment may be dwindling, and that today’s news editors are less likely to go to court over freedom of access issues.

“Today’s reporters and news outlets have access to innovative platforms, fresh perspectives, and a level of immediacy like never before. But it is also creating First Amendment challenges,” the Knight Foundation’s Jennifer Preston said in a press release.

Columbia’s First Amendment institute was founded as a joint effort between the Knight Foundation and the university, with each party contributing $30 million to fund the project.
 
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